Leading global art insurance specialist AXA Art has reacted to the recent spate of art thefts by offering to help all museums in its key markets review their security arrangements.

The two latest major thefts from galleries in Switzerland have prompted the insurer into action to help reduce its losses and keep works out of the clutches of illegal dealers.

It hopes to identify weakness in the museums' security and provide feedback on measures that can be quickly implemented to deter theft.

The service will be provided free of charge to AXA Art policyholders with a moderate charge to non-clients.

Dr Ulrich Guntram, chief executive officer of AXA Art, said: "We consider theft a huge and increasing threat to museums worldwide and as the leading art insurer we are committed to help museums protect themselves and their collections.

"The joining of forces between a museum and its insurance company is an obvious first step in preventing future incidents."

It is thought that advice AXA will dispense will include tightly securing or encasing important works, not allowing cars to park near galleries and maintaining video surveillance inside and around premises.

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