Full Breakdown
Recovery of Stolen Napoleon III Altar Plaques
2/23/2026, 9:41:23 PM
Discovery of Stolen Artefacts
Two of three altar plaques stolen from the crypt of Napoleon Bonaparte III at St Michael’s Abbey in Farnborough, Hampshire, have been recovered after an antiques dealer recognized them from a 30-year-old episode of the BBC comedy-drama *Lovejoy*. The wooden prayer frames, dating back to the 19th century, were taken during a burglary in February 2014. Paul Gostelow, a Derbyshire-based antiques dealer, identified the plaques after spotting a distinctive motif reminiscent of the Napoleonic era while watching the show. Following his call to Hampshire Constabulary on February 10, 2023, officers confirmed the items' authenticity through the International Stolen Arts Register and successfully returned them to the abbey.
Historical Context of the Plaques
The altar plaques are historically significant, as they were created from handwritten prayers found in the wallet of Louis, the son of Napoleon III, who died in the Zulu War in 1879. The plaques were used regularly by monks during mass until their theft. St Michael’s Abbey was commissioned by Empress Eugénie, the widow of Napoleon III, who built the monastery in Farnborough after her husband's death in exile in 1873. The abbey serves as the final resting place for Napoleon III, Eugénie, and their son Louis.
Official Statements & Responses
A spokesperson for St Michael’s Abbey expressed gratitude towards Gostelow for his diligence in recognizing the plaques, stating, “Although the cards have returned in a poor condition, the abbot and community are, nonetheless delighted at their return.” Hampshire police described the plaques as “unique, historically important and priceless,” and confirmed ongoing efforts to locate the third missing plaque.
Criticism & Opposition
In 2023, Roger Karoutchi, deputy speaker of the French Senate, called for the remains of Napoleon III to be returned to France, highlighting the historical significance of the emperor as the only sovereign buried abroad. This statement reflects ongoing discussions about the legacy of Napoleon III and the artifacts associated with him.
What's Next
Efforts are underway to locate the third plaque, which remains missing. The recovery of the two plaques has sparked renewed interest in the history of St Michael’s Abbey and the artifacts housed within it, as well as discussions about the preservation of cultural heritage.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They said: “After 12 years they were thought to have been lost, until a call to the constabulary from Paul Gostelow, who said he had two of the stolen plaques.” — Spokesman, Hampshire Constabulary
- “Although the cards have returned in a poor condition, the abbot and community are, nonetheless delighted at their return, and are grateful to the member of the public whose diligence led their recovery. It is hoped that the third card will be found and that those recovered can be restored.” — Spokesman, St Michael’s Abbey
- “A spokesman for St Michael’s Abbey said: “The altar cards were stolen from the crypt altar 12 years ago.” — Spokesman, St Michael’s Abbey
- “It is hoped that the third card will be found and that those recovered can be restored and return to their use.” — Spokesman, St Michael’s Abbey
