Prince Charles has reportedly been connected to a major fraud drama that involves multi-million dollar art works.
In a new report from the Daily Mail, a painting claimed to be by iconic artist Monet worth almost AUD $100,000 was sent back from one of the prince’s residences as another American forger Tony Tetro claims he painted it.
Yes, we had to take a moment to get our heads round this one, too.
In the report, around 17 paintings were loaned to Dumfries House, which is home to The Prince’s Foundation, from businessman James Stunt.
Among them was the alleged Monet piece, which was originally taken to the headquarters.
However, the American forger Tony told the Mail that he painted the picture, which features water lillies, and sold them to Stunt.
The picture has now been removed from public view.
The art scandal would no doubt come as a big surprise to Prince Charles.
(Getty)A spokesperson from The Prince’s Foundation elaborated on the surprising scandal, stating: “Dumfries House accepts artwork on loan from time to time from individuals and organisations.
“It is extremely regrettable that the authenticity of these particular paintings, which are no longer on display, now appears to be in doubt.”
A spokesperson from The Prince’s Foundation spoke about the scandal to the newspaper.
(Getty)Tetro, who makes a “legal living” by replicating masterpieces from iconic artists, told the Mail he did not “want any part of this. It has got to be stopped now rather than later.”
It is unclear as to whether the Prince’s Foundation had an inkling as to the authenticity of the pieces.
WATCH: Prince Charles and Camilla attends a Welsh country show. Story continues after video…
Prince Charles is definitely not one to become embroiled in matters like these, so it’s likely he won’t be commenting on this.
And after a quick reccy of his calendar, it would seem that he barely has time to think about such things anyway – Charles has a busy month ahead with a tour of New Zealand and India coming up.
The Indian tour came as a surprise to royal watchers after Clarence House shared the exciting news in a Tweet.
“The Prince of Wales will visit India from 13th-14th November, as part of Their Royal Highnesses’ Autumn tour, to celebrate British-Indian connections,” the statement read.
The Indian leg will take place as the future King celebrates his 71st birthday.
Charles and Camilla have a busy month ahead.
(Getty)The pair will later travel to New Zealand between Sunday 17 November and Saturday 23 November.
Camilla and Charles will attend engagements at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, as well as Christchurch during the formal visit.
