Police launch hunt for £500,000 stolen sculpture

Police have launched an investigation after a sculpture statue worth up to £500,000 was stolen from Hertfordshire.

The 'Sundial' was the work of world famous sculptor Henry Moore. Created in 1965 the bronze artwork was taken from the grounds of The Henry Moore Foundation in Much Hadham, Hertforshire, Moore’s former home.

Measuring 56cm, the sculpture was stolen sometime between 4.30pm on Tuesday July 10th and 11am on Wednesday July 11th. It had been sited in the gardens of Hoglands, Moore’s house. It was located so as to be viewed from the large sitting room.

Richard Calvocoressi, Director of the Henry Moore Foundation, said:

"We are deeply saddened about the loss of Sundial from the gardens of Henry Moore's former home and are helping the police in the hope it may be recovered. We take our care of Henry Moore's sculptures extremely seriously and have installed heightened security measures here in recent years. We would be grateful if anyone with information would contact the police.'

Detective Inspector Paul Watts, who is leading the investigation said:

“This ‘sundial’ sculpture is a valuable piece and we are very keen to speak to anyone who may have seen it. If you have any information in relation to this incident, please contact police immediately on 101, or alternatively Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."