ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Brazilian Police Recover Henri Matisse Works Stolen from São Paulo Library

cultural-heritage · 2026-08-14

Brazilian police have recovered artworks by Henri Matisse that were stolen in December 2025 from the Mario de Andrade Library in São Paulo. The recovered pieces are part of a set of thirteen illustrations taken during the theft. According to police estimates, the works are valued at approximately $200,000. The library, located in the heart of Brazil's largest city, had been the site of the robbery. The recovery marks a significant development in the investigation, though details about how the works were found or who was involved have not been disclosed. The Mario de Andrade Library is a prominent cultural institution in São Paulo, and the theft had raised concerns about the security of valuable art collections in public spaces. The recovery of the Matisse works is a positive outcome for the cultural heritage community, as the pieces hold both artistic and historical significance. The investigation is ongoing, and further information may emerge as authorities continue their work.

Key facts

  • Brazilian police recovered Henri Matisse artworks stolen in December 2025.
  • The theft occurred at the Mario de Andrade Library in São Paulo.
  • The works are part of a set of thirteen illustrations.
  • Police estimate the value of the recovered works at about $200,000.
  • The library is located in the center of São Paulo, Brazil's largest city.
  • The recovery is a development in the ongoing investigation.
  • Details of the recovery method and suspects have not been disclosed.

Entities

Artists

  • Henri Matisse

Institutions

  • Mario de Andrade Library

Locations

  • São Paulo
  • Brazil

Sources