The audacious break-in reportedly involved an explosion, leading to significant damage within the gallery and to neighboring structures. Local authorities have confirmed that the thieves initially made off with four pieces from the series but abandoned two others nearby because they were too cumbersome to transport. The two retrieved pieces represented Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands and Queen Ntombi Tfwala of Eswatini but were left behind as escape options diminished.
These artworks were set to be showcased at the upcoming PAN Amsterdam art fair, where they were expected to draw considerable attention as a set. Warhol, who passed away in 1987, created these striking silkscreens in 1985, and pieces from the series have fetched impressive sums—such as two depicting Queen Elizabeth II that sold for over £500,000 at a Sotheby's auction in 2022.
Authorities continue to investigate the brazen theft, as the local art community reacts to the potential loss of significant cultural artifacts. The incident places a spotlight on art security, and the remaining artworks might remain at risk. The investigation is ongoing, with police urging anyone with information to come forward to aid in recovering the stolen paintings.
While the realm of high-value art increasingly sees thefts and crimes, this particular incident raises questions about vulnerabilities in gallery security during high-profile events leading up to significant art fairs. The art world watches closely as this story develops, hoping for a swift resolution.
These artworks were set to be showcased at the upcoming PAN Amsterdam art fair, where they were expected to draw considerable attention as a set. Warhol, who passed away in 1987, created these striking silkscreens in 1985, and pieces from the series have fetched impressive sums—such as two depicting Queen Elizabeth II that sold for over £500,000 at a Sotheby's auction in 2022.
Authorities continue to investigate the brazen theft, as the local art community reacts to the potential loss of significant cultural artifacts. The incident places a spotlight on art security, and the remaining artworks might remain at risk. The investigation is ongoing, with police urging anyone with information to come forward to aid in recovering the stolen paintings.
While the realm of high-value art increasingly sees thefts and crimes, this particular incident raises questions about vulnerabilities in gallery security during high-profile events leading up to significant art fairs. The art world watches closely as this story develops, hoping for a swift resolution.
