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Thirteen artworks, among them eight engravings by French modernist artist Henri Matisse, were stolen on Sunday during an armed robbery at the Mario de Andrade Library in central Sao Paulo, authorities confirmed.
According to the Sao Paulo state government, two armed men entered the library shortly before midday and carried out the theft while the building was open to visitors. Police said one of the suspects held a security guard and an elderly couple hostage as the pair proceeded to remove the artworks from a glass-domed exhibition area.
The suspects placed the items into a canvas bag before escaping through the library’s main entrance. They were last seen fleeing in the direction of Anhangabau Metro Station, the governor’s office said. No injuries were reported.
The stolen pieces include eight Matisse engravings, reportedly works featured in the artist’s 1947 book "Jazz" and five pieces by Brazilian painter Candido Portinari. The works formed part of the exhibition From the Book to the Museum, a collaboration between the library and the Museum of Modern Art of Sao Paulo (MAM). The exhibition was scheduled to close on Sunday, the day of the robbery.
Authorities have not disclosed the estimated value of the stolen artworks. Police investigators remained on site Sunday afternoon to review security footage and collect forensic evidence. Officials stated that the building, a historic cultural landmark, is equipped with security cameras, though details of how the suspects gained access to the exhibition area remain under investigation.
Henri Matisse is a French painter, printmaker and sculptor who became a leading figure of modern art. Originally trained in law, he turned to painting in his 20s and later studied in Paris. Known for his bold use of color and his role in developing Fauvism, Matisse worked across many media, including painting, engraving and sculpture.
In his later years, he created his celebrated paper cut-outs, including the works featured in his acclaimed 1947 book "Jazz." He remained an influential force in art until his death in Nice in 1954.
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