The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has successfully recovered the stolen painting “Mango Harvester,” a valuable work by the renowned Filipino artist Fernando Amorsolo. The painting, which is 88 years old, was stolen from the Hofileña Museum in Silay City on July 3, 2024. After a meticulous investigation, the NBI was able to retrieve the painting and bring it to the National Museum for authentication. Experts confirmed that the painting is indeed an authentic work by Amorsolo, adding to its historical and monetary value.
Fernando Amorsolo, known for his mastery in portraying Philippine rural landscapes and everyday scenes, painted “Mango Harvester” in 1936. This painting is a testament to Amorsolo’s skill in capturing the vibrancy and simplicity of rural life in the Philippines. The piece depicts a farmer harvesting mangoes, showcasing Amorsolo’s signature use of light and color. His works are highly esteemed in the art world, making this recovery a significant achievement for the NBI and the art community.
The theft of the painting had caused considerable concern among art enthusiasts and historians. The Hofileña Museum, where the painting was displayed, is known for its extensive collection of Philippine art and antiques. The loss of “Mango Harvester” was a significant blow to the museum’s collection and to the cultural heritage of the region. The recovery of the painting not only restores a valuable piece to the museum but also reinforces the importance of safeguarding national treasures.
The painting has a conservative estimated value ranging from P8,000,000 to P12,000,000. This high valuation reflects the painting’s rarity and the artist’s esteemed reputation. Amorsolo’s works are among the most sought-after pieces in Philippine art, and their value continues to be appreciated over time. The recovered painting is expected to undergo further conservation efforts to ensure its preservation for future generations.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges in protecting valuable artworks from theft and illegal trade. Museums and private collectors are urged to enhance security measures to prevent such incidents. The NBI’s successful recovery of “Mango Harvester” serves as a reminder of the agency’s dedication to preserving the country’s cultural heritage. It also highlights the collaborative efforts between law enforcement and the art community in tackling art theft and ensuring the protection of invaluable cultural assets.