Thieves steal three Renoir paintings in early morning raid, prompting manhunt

In the early hours, a group of thieves forced entry into the Renoir Museum in Cagnes-sur-Mer, a historic site built in the painter’s former mansion. They seized four paintings, but police intercepted the suspects and a chase ensued, during which one canvas was abandoned while the other three were taken. Mayor Bryan Masson posted on Facebook that the incident represents a grave attack on the town’s history and heritage.

The museum, founded in 1960, displays 13 works by Renoir along with around 40 sculptures, furniture pieces, and photographs. Local law enforcement has initiated an urgent manhunt to locate the stolen artworks and apprehend those responsible. Further details are expected as the investigation proceeds.