Turkish police seize 13th-century painting of Jesus

KAYSERİ – Anadolu Agency

Turkish police have seized a 13th-century painting depicting the crucifixion of Jesus, security sources said on Feb. 19.

The find came when police raided the office of a suspected antiquities smuggler in the central Turkish province of Kayseri, said the source, speaking on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to the media.

A delegation from Turkey's Cultural and Natural Heritage Preservation Board is expected to release a report on the painting's provenance after a thorough investigation.

A museum in Kayseri put the artwork under its protection.

The painting's value has reportedly been estimated at 5 million Turkish liras (around $1 million).

Turkish forces seized the painting, measuring 200 x 140 centimeters, showing the crucified Jesus with two women and a man standing alongside, and including Latin and Hebrew writing.

The suspect arrested over the incident is reportedly an international trader.