Steampunk art stolen from Bob Basset?

[Count_Zirock]

Was Steampunk art stolen from Ukrainian artist Bob Basset?

[Toy Ranch]

Well, it was probably stolen by SOMEONE, but understand that Design Toscano is a retailer, and while this is listed as an exclusive piece to them, that is because they signed an exclusive agreement with whomever stole the artwork, and presented it as their own.  I'm not aware of a pattern of IP theft by Design Toscano, and indeed a high profile business that engaged in it is setting themselves up for quite a difficult and short lifespan as a company.   The thing to be done is to file a cease and desist order against Design Toscano and to subpoena records pertaining to the item, which would reveal who needs to be sued for compensation. 

Count Z, I realize your thread title was taken from the blog article you linked, but would recommend that you remove the accusation (even posed as a question), as you are potentially exposing yourself to litigation for libel.  We don't know who stole the artwork, and it's quite likely that Design Toscano had no knowledge of the theft. And from their  point of view, even now, was it Bob Basset who stole the art from the artist they have a contract with, or did the artist who sold it to them steal it?  This is not a question for them to answer, it is a question for the courts. Indeed I could buy something that came from them, cast it and make a copy, and claim that they stole it from me.  Not saying that's what happened here at all, but they can't just take someone's word for it, or a competitor or prankster could seriously disrupt their business.

[Count_Zirock]

The original artist is in the Ukraine, so I doubt there will be any court cases, period.

[Count_Zirock]

Design Toscano has replied on their Facebook page that they will consult with the UK-based artist that provided their piece, and take whatever measures are appropriate.

[Scatter]

You know the old sayings.........never get involved in a land war in Asia, and never hire a lawyer in the Ukraine.

[Count_Zirock]

Well, hopefully, if anything hinky went on, DT will set it right. But, their UK-based artist could just as easily claim Basset stole the concept from them. So, who knows how it'll turn out, at this point. I only posted it here as a cautionary tale for all the very fine, creative talents on the UMA.