National Stolen Art File: FBI's Database Of Stolen Art

FBI Launches National Stolen Art File

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has recently updated its website with a new resource. A dedicated online index has been implemented to catalog all reported art thefts and robberies.

Introducing the NSAF

This index is officially known as the NSAF, which stands for National Stolen Art File. It serves as a centralized repository for information regarding stolen artworks.

What the NSAF Contains

The National Stolen Art File is a publicly accessible online database maintained by the FBI. It documents US thefts and robberies involving a diverse range of art-related items. These include books, carpets, firearms, antiques, and other valuable objects.

Searching the Database

A straightforward search function is available on the NSAF homepage, located in the right-hand panel. Users can search for stolen items by specifying criteria such as category, creator, title, period, or any other relevant details. Not all search fields are required for a query.

Search results are displayed promptly in the left-hand panel of the webpage.

Accessing Detailed Information

Selecting a result’s title will lead you to a page containing comprehensive details about the stolen item.

Importance for Antique Dealers

The NSAF is an invaluable resource, particularly for professionals in the antique trade. Before completing a purchase, dealers can utilize the NSAF to verify the provenance of an artwork and confirm it hasn’t been previously reported as stolen.