Police appeal after 150k violin stolen from pub

An 18th-century violin, valued at over £150,000, was stolen from The Marquess Tavern in Islington, London, on February 18. The instrument, made in Florence in 1740 by renowned maker Lorenzo Carcassi, belonged to David Lopez Ibanez, a member of the Philharmonia Orchestra. While dining, Mr. Ibanez noticed the violin missing and quickly alerted the police. The violin, which features a distinctive heart-shaped cut-out, had been loaned to him by a businessman who recognized his talent online.

PC Michael Collins emphasized the violin's sentimental value, calling it "priceless" to its owner. The police released CCTV footage to aid in identifying the suspect, who allegedly stuffed the instrument under a coat. Mr. Ibanez expressed the emotional impact of the theft, stating, "My life was torn apart. " Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact them or Crimestoppers.