(CNN) Stolen almost two decades ago from an ancient abbey in northeastern Italy, a trafficked 19th century art piece is making its way back home. The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency recovered a 19th century painting Wednesday looted from the Abbey of Santa Maria in Sylvis in Sesto al Reghena, Italy, in 2002, officials said in a statement. The stolen artwork, titled "the Assumption of the Virgin Mary," was painted by Italian artist Giuseppe Pappini in August 1851. The dealer had no knowledge that the piece was stolen, the statement said. Upon learning that the painting was taken illegally, the collector willingly released it to HSI to be returned to its rightful owner in Italy, the statement said.

Source: CNN September 04, 2020 02:37 UTC