In Granada, a long-awaited exhibition has opened, where visitors can finally see the famous Picasso piece, ‘Still Life with Guitar.’ This small but valuable painting, measuring only 12.7 by 9.8 centimeters, became the centerpiece of a true detective story that lasted nearly a month.
It all began when the artwork was supposed to be sent from Madrid to Granada for a major exhibition dedicated to still life. However, instead of covering the 400 kilometers to its destination, the painting was left—due to a bizarre mistake—right on the doorstep of its owner’s home. Staff from the transport company accidentally left it at the door, where a concierge picked it up, assuming it was an ordinary package for the residents. For several days, the painting lay in a storage room until the police traced the missing artwork and seized it for examination.
After a brief stay with law enforcement, the artwork was returned to its owner and then, this time under professional supervision, sent on to Granada. The transport went smoothly, and the painting took its place among other exhibits at the CajaGranada Cultural Center.
The eagerly awaited exhibition
Since the exhibition opened, visitors were able to view all the announced pieces except one—Picasso’s painting. Organizers had to explain to guests why such an important exhibit was missing. Finally, 27 days after the expected arrival date, the collection was at last complete.
The artwork, created with gouache and graphite pencil on paper, was insured for an impressive amount—600,000 euros. Several years ago, it fetched around 60,000 at auction, but now its value has skyrocketed, largely due to the unusual circumstances of its disappearance and return.
A Journey Into the History of Still Life
The exhibition in Granada is more than just a collection of masterpieces. It invites visitors on a journey through the key eras in the development of the genre: from the baroque compositions of Flemish masters to the bold experiments of 20th-century Cubists. Next to Picasso’s work, you can see pieces by Juan Gris, María Blanchard, as well as modern interpretations by Antonio López and Fernando Botero. Special attention is given to Magritte’s metaphysical still lifes, which are displayed alongside classical examples.
Now that all exhibits are in place, the exhibition will be open to visitors until January 11. Organizers believe that the unusual story of the painting’s disappearance has only fueled public interest. Guests will not only enjoy the art, but also witness the conclusion of one of the year’s most talked-about museum stories.
