Note to collectors: make sure to protect your favorite works of art from angry lovers, lest they hold your Pablo Picasso hostage.
That’s what reportedly happened to music mogul Jason Flom, according to Page Six. The record executive, who has worked with the likes of Katy Perry, Lorde, and Jessie J, had a tumultuous relationship with Ania Spiering, a Russian actress, amid still-ongoing divorce proceedings from his wife.
“This girl once held a Picasso at knifepoint [during an argument with Jason],” a source told Page Six. “He was on vacation in Aspen with his kids…when she called and videoed herself in Jason’s Manhattan apartment, holding the painting. Jason’s doorman had to stop her.”
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Generally, when works of art fall victim to violence or vandalism, it’s because someone takes issue with their content, or because someone is clumsy (especially when selfies are involved). But in this alleged instance, it would seem it was less about the art itself and more about revenge.
Presumably, the painting wasn’t on par with the record-breaking, $179.4 million, Les Femme d’Algers (Version “O”), but still, the market for the master is certainly booming across the board.
As for Flom and Spiering: The two dated for about a year, but have still gone their separate ways—to the relief of Picasso enthusiasts around the world.
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