A Pablo Picasso painting valued at approximately 600,000 euros has mysteriously vanished during its transport from Madrid to Granada on October 2, 2025. The artwork, titled "Still Life with Guitar," was being moved for an exhibition when it disappeared under suspicious circumstances, prompting police to launch a full investigation to determine whether the incident was an error or a planned theft.
The painting's journey began on September 25 when a specialized art transport company picked up the work from Madrid. The artwork was initially stored in a warehouse before beginning its scheduled journey from October 2-3 to the Cultural Center of Granada. However, the transport included an overnight stop in Deifontes, which investigators believe may be the crucial point in the disappearance.
Several factors have complicated the investigation and may have contributed to the theft. A numbering error on the packaging prevented thorough inspection during the transfer of artworks, allowing the transport to proceed without interruption from the vehicle to the exhibition hall. Additionally, the foundation has confirmed that weekend surveillance recordings show no incidents involving the paintings, making it difficult to pinpoint exactly when and how the artwork disappeared.
The missing painting was scheduled to be featured in the exhibition "La eternidad de lo inerte" (The Eternity of the Inert) at the CajaGranada Foundation, which opened its doors on October 8. Created in 1919 by the Spanish master, the oil on canvas measures just 12.7 centimeters by 9.8 centimeters but carries an estimated value of around 600,000 euros. This substantial value makes Picasso's works particularly attractive targets for art thieves.
This incident highlights the ongoing vulnerability of Picasso's works to theft. The artist's paintings have been targeted by criminals before, most notably in 1976 when more than 100 of his works were stolen in Avignon, southeastern France. Those paintings were eventually recovered, giving hope that this latest missing piece might also be found. Police continue their investigation into the Granada disappearance, working to determine the exact circumstances that led to the loss of this valuable artwork.
