In early October, a van transporting numerous artworks to the CajaGranada Cultural Center in Spain became the center of an investigation after a valuable painting went missing. The van arrived at the museum on October 3, but staff discovered that Pablo Picasso's "Still Life with Guitar," created in 1919, was absent when they opened the crates three days later. The small painting, measuring just 5 inches by 4 inches, is insured for over $650,000 and is now the focus of an expanding inquiry.

The artwork was part of a shipment of 57 pieces, including one by Picasso and 56 by other artists, which had been stored in Madrid from September 25 until October 2. The van made the approximately 260-mile journey to Granada, a trip that typically takes about five hours. Investigators revealed that the van made an unscheduled overnight stop in Deifontes, a small town near Granada, after leaving Madrid on the afternoon of October 2.

The two drivers reported to police that they took turns sleeping in or near the van while keeping watch over the cargo. This unexpected stop has raised suspicions among investigators. Arthur Brand, a prominent art detective, commented, "If you’re moving art this valuable, you don’t stop overnight after four hours. You deliver it immediately. Doing otherwise is extremely suspicious."

Upon arrival at the CajaGranada Center, the crates were unloaded and placed in a secure, video-monitored room. Due to the lack of numbered boxes, a full inspection was delayed until October 6. Security footage from the weekend showed no signs of tampering. However, when staff began unpacking on Monday, they discovered the Picasso painting was missing. The CajaGranada Foundation promptly reported the theft to the National Police and is cooperating with the investigation.

Authorities are now examining the timeline between September 25, when the painting was stored, and October 2, when it left Madrid. They are also reviewing surveillance footage from the museum and the hostel in Deifontes where the drivers stayed overnight. Brand noted that insider involvement cannot be dismissed, stating, "In many art thefts, there are insiders -- people who tip off criminals or are part of the plan. Someone with inside knowledge of the schedule or security can make it much easier."

The investigation is being conducted by the Policia Nacional’s unit in Granada, along with Spain’s Brigada de Patrimonio Historico, the national art-crimes team. A spokesperson for the Brigada de Patrimonio Histórico confirmed that they are coordinating with Interpol, Europol, and other international agencies. The missing Picasso has been entered into an international database of stolen artworks.

While authorities have not confirmed if Deifontes remains the primary focus of their investigation, they are open to public tips. Despite the ongoing uncertainty, Brand expressed confidence in the investigation, stating, "Spain has some of the best art-crime investigators in the world. If anyone can find this painting, they can — and if they don’t, I will. One way or another, it will be found."