A 1941 portrait of British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill, famously known as the 'Roaring Lion,' has been recovered in Italy after being stolen from Ottawa's Fairmont Château Laurier hotel in August 2022.

The theft was uncovered when a hotel worker noticed the portrait's frame was improperly hung, prompting an investigation.

The hotel management expressed excitement and relief about the portrait's return, emphasizing its historical significance and importance to the hotel's legacy.

Police confirmed that both the buyer and the auction house were unaware that the portrait was stolen, highlighting the professionalism of the heist.

Ottawa police utilized public tips, forensic analysis, and international cooperation to locate the stolen artwork, which was sold through an auction house to a private buyer in Genoa.

The portrait, valued at $100,000 USD, was gifted to the hotel by renowned photographer Yousuf Karsh, who captured the iconic image of Churchill.

Karsh, who fled the Armenian genocide, described the portrait as life-changing and expressed a desire for it to return to Canada for public enjoyment.

Italian authorities have laid charges in connection with the recovery, while a 43-year-old suspect from Ontario has been arrested and charged with theft and forgery.

The suspect's identity is protected by a publication ban due to ongoing legal proceedings, but he willingly returned the portrait to authorities.

The painting is set to be officially handed over to Canadian authorities in a ceremony in Rome later this month before being returned to the hotel.

Once retrieved, the portrait will be displayed again at the Fairmont Château Laurier, where it has historical significance.

The hotel has promised enhanced protection for the portrait upon its return, ensuring its safety after being missing for over two years.