Mexican Authorities Detain Suspect in Theft of Rare Bronze Sculptures from Historic Church

Authorities in Mexico have apprehended a 26-year-old man suspected of stealing several bronze sculptures from the courtyard of a historic church in Mexico City. Among the stolen items are works by the renowned surrealist artist Leonora Carrington.

The Mexico City Secretariat of Public Security issued a statement confirming the suspect's arrest. His clothing and facial features matched those captured on surveillance cameras during the theft. The suspect is also under suspicion for possession of marijuana, though the official charges against him have not yet been determined.

The theft was initially revealed by José de Jesús Aguilar, the priest of San Cosme Church, who posted videos on social media showing the disappearance of sculptures from the church’s statue garden.

Security footage showed an individual wearing a light-colored vest climbing over a low wall, approaching one of the sculptures, and removing it from its base after repeatedly moving it. The suspect then left the scene carrying the artwork.

Among the stolen pieces is Carrington’s bronze sculpture titled "The Black Dog," which represents a legendary guardian and was created using an ancient traditional metal casting technique. Also taken was a sculpture by artist César Ruiz Coriño inspired by the surrealist painting "Woman Leaving Her Psychoanalyst" by Remedios Varo, another prominent surrealist. Additionally, a bronze untitled statue depicting a winged angel embracing a child was stolen.

Leonora Carrington, originally from Britain, and Spanish painter Remedios Varo are recognized as leading figures of the surrealist movement. The two artists shared a close friendship after meeting in Paris and later relocating to Mexico City during World War II.

Local media have estimated the market value of the stolen artworks between 150,000 and 200,000 Mexican pesos, approximately $8,500 to $11,400 USD. Authorities have not disclosed whether the sculptures have been recovered.

Father Aguilar also reported that the thief stole valuable metal identification plaques after breaking the lock on the church gate to remove the sculptures. He suggested the motive might have been to sell the items as scrap metal.

He stated, "We will continue working to ensure that the San Cosme parish remains a place of faith and, at the same time, a space for art and culture."