Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev announced yesterday the results of an inventory of Russian museum collections: More than 160,000 artifacts are said to be missing.
The inventory was ordered last summer by President Vladimir Putin, in the wake of the inside-job theft scandal at the State Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg.
So what’s going to be done about it?
Canada’s CBC News reports:
Medvedev recommended wrapping up the investigation, even in cases where it is unknown where the art has gone, and concentrating on addressing the problems of Russia’s museums. Many museums need extensive repairs and the commission is also discussing better security.
Better security—now there’s an idea whose time has come. Any new government funding for this?