Long-distance bus lines are often checked because they are used by criminal networks to convey drugs. The spokesman said the customs officers did not further question the passengers on the bus, but the investigation would continue. After the painting was recovered, the Musée d’Orsay confirmed its authenticity. French customs officials seized more than 10,000 works of art in 2016, mostly ancient pieces of currency and archaeological artifacts, according to official statistics. In another high-profile case from 2015, customs agents seized a portrait by Picasso from a yacht in the Mediterranean.

Source: New York Times February 23, 2018 19:18 UTC