Villanova Art Curator Charged With Laundering Drug Money

The Justice Department has charged curator and Philadelphia gallery owner Nathan Isen with money laundering. The government contends the 61-year-old Isen, who’s best known for his expertise on the work of Louis Icart, sold 12 works of art for $20,000 cash — money he allegedly knew was earned from pot dealing. The longtime Villanova resident could get 20 years in prison if he’s convicted, in addition to three years probation and more than $250,000 in fines. He was nabbed in an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations.

Isen’s gallery, I. Brewster & Co., has been in business for more than 30 years — first as a Center City walkup, and now as a 22-person concern in Fairmount. Isen has served as an appraiser and authenticator throughout his career, including for the notorious Khan brothers auctioneers. An employee at the gallery said Isen is on vacation in Florida and cannot be reached. The full text of the information is below.