Stolen Warhol Artworks from Dutch Gallery: A Heist Unfolds

The MPV Gallery in North Brabant faced a drastic break-in leading to the theft of two significant artworks from the Reigning Queens series amidst security chaos.

Two artworks by famed American artist Andy Warhol have been stolen from the MPV Gallery in North Brabant, Netherlands, during an audacious break-in last night. The heist involved the theft of four silkscreens from Warhol's celebrated Reigning Queens series, two of which were abandoned by the thieves, as confirmed by the gallery owner during an interview with Dutch broadcaster NOS.

Among the stolen pieces are the portraits of the late Queen Elizabeth II and Margrethe II of Denmark, the latter having abdicated earlier this year. Local law enforcement, investigating the scene, reported that an explosion had occurred, causing extensive damage to both the gallery and adjacent structures. It’s suggested that the culprits fled the scene in a vehicle.

The thieves left behind two additional prints from the same series, which showcase Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands and Queen Ntombi Tfwala of Eswatini, as they reportedly could not accommodate them in their getaway car. These artworks were scheduled to be displayed and sold together at the upcoming PAN Amsterdam art fair later this month.

Created in 1985, only two years prior to Warhol's passing, these silkscreens are part of a broader collection of 16 pieces portraying four queens. The high value of these artworks is underscored by the fact that similar works featuring Queen Elizabeth II sold for over £500,000 each at a Sotheby’s auction in 2022. As investigations continue, the art world holds its breath regarding the fate of these important cultural pieces.