Art theft refers to the illegal act of stealing valuable works of art, such as paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. This crime can occur in various settings, including museums, galleries, and private collections. Thieves often target high-value pieces, which can be sold on the black market or kept for personal enjoyment. The impact of art theft extends beyond the loss of the artwork itself. It can lead to significant financial losses for institutions and artists, as well as a loss of cultural heritage. Efforts to combat art theft include increased security measures and international cooperation to recover stolen pieces, such as those from famous artists like Vincent van Gogh or Pablo Picasso.