The body of renowned South African painter, Cornelius Bosch, who went missing from his Pretoria home on February 24, has been found, a family spokesperson said on Wednesday.
“Earlier today [Wednesday], the police confirmed to the Bosch family that Cornelius Bosch’s body had been found,” Lee Lerm said.
“The identity of the body was confirmed by means of dental records. The police are not disclosing where he was found. There’s still a forensic investigation underway.”
Lerm said the police were “closely” monitoring all trade in Cornelius Bosch paintings.
“The Bosch family requests that they not be disturbed during this difficult time.”
Bosch (55), who was last seen on February 24, had disappeared from his Kameeldrift home.
His disappearance had left his family and friends gravely concerned for his safety, according to a report in the Pretoria News.
Bosch’s bakkie and cellphone were missing.
‘Very unusual’
The art website Artween.com said Bosch described himself as a South African artist who had been working as a painter full-time for 20 years. His works range from landscapes to abstract paintings.
Bosch’s friend and colleague Hester Carstens said it was not like him to just disappear without saying a word.
“We do not know what to think. His house is neat and tidy and there are no signs of a struggle. What adds to the mystery is that his Bible, toothbrush and other personal items are still at the house, which means he hasn’t gone on a trip. We don’t know what could have happened to him. It’s very unusual,” she was quoted as saying.
Investigating officer Warrant Officer Stephen Joubert said Bosch was last seen by the manager of a gallery on February 24.
The alarm was raised when Bosch failed to arrive at several month-end meetings to sign documents at galleries.
“We have gone to his house with forensic investigators but cannot find anything amiss. It is clean and tidy. Nothing appears out of place,” Joubert said. — Sapa