"On August 23rd, in the daylight hours, a residential burglary occurred at a home in Encino. Nine original paintings were taken from that residence," said Julianne Sohn, Los Angeles Police Department.
Authorities couldn't say how much the paintings were worth. However, Michael Rice, a senior art consultant with Galerie Michael in Beverly Hills, says the collection would sell for millions.
"These are all in the high six-figure into the seven-figure price range. They're very, very sophisticated," said Rice.
Rice says one of the most recognizable pieces in the collection is a painting by renowned Russian artist, Marc Chagall. However, Rice says there are pieces that are even more valuable.
"There is a Kees van Dongen, who was a very important artist in France. And the Mexican artist Diego Rivera, who most people know as Frida Kahlo's husband is very, very popular as well," said Rice.
Police say the owners of the artwork have put up a $200,000 reward for the return of the paintings. Rice says it could happen because anyone stealing this type of art would not be able to resell it for a profit.
"There's no way to sell this without the track history ... You have to have very specialized certificates of authenticity. That's why most of the great pieces that have been stolen in the last 10 years have been returned," said Rice.
If you have any information, you should contact the Los Angeles Police Department at (877) LAW-FULL or (877) 529-3855.
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