Α well-known loca art dealer was arrested on forgery and antiquities trafficking by Greek Police’s major crimes unit on Friday, two days after he posted a video for the auction of what was billed as a Bible printed in Venice in 1745.

Police arrested art collector and dealer Giorgos Tsagkarakis and also raided a warehouse in the Elliniko district of southern coastal Athens, along with his gallery in the upscale Kolonaki district in central Athens.

According to police sources quoted in media reports, during a search of a warehouse, more than 300 paintings deemed as replicas or even outright frauds, along with more than 200,000 euros in cash were discovered.

The Bible that sparked the investigation two days ago was also seized and is being examined by experts to verify its authenticity. The initial video was posted via social media on Wednesday and then hastily withdrawn.

A tip-off reportedly launched the investigation.

Statement by the Gallery

In a subsequent announcement, Tsagkarakis Gallery Ltd. claimed the seized paintings are part of Tsagkarakis’ personal collection and were inherited from his late parents. The announcement added that the artworks have been in the family as personal and collectible items for more than 40 years and were not up for sale.

Regarding the Bible, the gallery said it has been handed over to authorities to assess its authenticity, dating and potential purchase by the Greek state, noting that the company does not retain experts for religious or similar items.