The Case of the Missing Caravaggio

On a stormy night in Palermo in 1969, thieves entered the Oratory of San Lorenzo and sliced a priceless Caravaggio masterpiece from its frame. Nativity with St. Francis and St. Lawrence hasn’t been seen since. In this episode of Art Happens: The Divine Mess of Art History , James follows the painting from Caravaggio’s turbulent life and revolutionary use of light and shadow into a decades-long mystery filled with Mafia informants, black-market collectors, contradictory confessions, and rumors of a masterpiece destroyed by rats and pigs. Was the missing Caravaggio hidden, sold, buried—or lost forever? Explore how a sacred painting became criminal currency, why its disappearance continues to haunt the art world, and what we truly lose when a masterpiece vanishes. Send us a Note! Let us know what you think! J-Squared Atelier, LLC for the love of art Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Send us a text Don't miss the video podcast version on Apple Podcasts , YouTube , and Spotify !!! Follow & Subscribe to Art Happens Connect with Us: J-Squared Aterlier (J2Atelier) 🌐 Website: J2 Atelier 📸 Instagram: @J2Atelier James William Moore 🌐 Website: James William Moore 📸 Instagram: @the_jwmartist Catch Lattes & Art , our sister podcast—coffee-fueled conversations with artists about process, inspiration, and the beautiful mess behind the work. You can find it on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , ...