The Nativity with St. Francis and St. Lawrence, painted by the renowned Baroque artist Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, was stolen from its location in the Oratory of Saint Lawrence in Palermo. The painting was created in 1609 and holds significant historical and artistic value, representing the transition in Caravaggio's style towards a more intense emotional expression and dramatic use of light. The theft occurred during a period of renovation at the Oratory, making it vulnerable to the meticulous planning of the thieves. The painting disappeared without immediate notice, which raised concerns about security for valuable art in public spaces.

The investigation into the theft revealed the organized nature of the crime, suggesting that the perpetrators were familiar with the Oratory's layout and the temporary inhibitions caused by restoration efforts. Local and international art experts feared for the painting’s future, worried it might be damaged or sold on the black market, effectively removing it from public view permanently. The theft ignited a discussion about the protection of cultural heritage, leading to calls for improved security measures for artwork in churches and public institutions.

Art historians and enthusiasts worldwide demanded action, seeking to restore not just the painting but also the cultural integrity that its theft compromised. The long-term repercussions of the theft continued echoing in discussions about art theft prevention and the responsibilities of institutions to safeguard their collections. Various theories emerged regarding the fate of the painting, but little concrete evidence surfaced in the years that followed, leaving the art community in uncertainty.