Polish customs officials have discovered a Renoir painting dating to 1909 sent through regular Polish Post by a resident of a Warsaw suburb.

The painting has been seized and turned over to Warsaw’s Royal Castle for display. The work of art by Pierre-August Renoir was purchased at an auction in January for 700,000 zloty (about nearly 200,000 euro) and was being sent to the United States.

“When one sends a valuable work of art, the regional heritage conservator must give permission and 25 percent of the value of the work must be paid, so, in this case, 180,000 zloty (about 45,000 euro),” says Piotr Talalaj, spokesperson for the Warsaw Customs Office.

The owner of the Renoir did not do so; the piece was packed in a simple 18x20 cm envelope and the sender awaits a decision as to the fine for violating export laws. (mmj)