September 21, 2011 - Houston police robbery investigators are asking for the public's assistance in identifying a suspect and locating a painting stolen in an incident earlier this month at a westside residence.

The suspect stole a Renoir painting from a residence near Woodway and Chimney Rock on September 8.  The painting is part of a private collection at the Vaughn Christopher Art Gallery at 1217 South Shepherd.  A photo of the painting is attached to this news release.

A private business is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the return of the painting.

Officers were called to a residence near Woodway and Chimney Rock on September 8.  The victim told police a suspect, described only as a white male wearing a ski mask and gloves, demanded money and jewelry.  He was armed with a black semiautomatic weapon.  The victim pointed out a painting on the wall and its value.  The suspect took the painting and its frame and fled the residence.  The victim was not injured.

Anyone with information on the suspect or the painting is urged to contact the HPD Robbery Division at 713-308-0700.