A bronze statue of Momotaro, a significant cultural gift from San Jose's sister city Okayama, Japan, has been stolen from Guadalupe River Park. The San Jose Office of Cultural Affairs confirmed the theft, which occurred sometime before October 15, prompting a police investigation into the disappearance of the beloved public artwork.
Key Takeaways
- Momotaro statue, a gift from Okayama, Japan, was stolen from Guadalupe River Park.
- The theft was discovered before October 15, leaving only the statue's feet.
- This is the third public art theft in San Jose in recent years.
- The statue symbolized the long-standing sister city relationship established in 1957.
- Authorities are asking the public for any information regarding the statue's whereabouts.
Cultural Significance of the Momotaro Statue
The Momotaro statue, often known as 'Peach Boy', represents a popular Japanese folklore hero. It depicts the boy with his loyal animal companions: a dog, a monkey, and a pheasant. Together, they embark on a journey to defeat a group of ogres, a story that celebrates courage and teamwork.
This particular statue was a replica of the bronze artwork that stands prominently at Okayama Station in Japan. Its presence in San Jose's Guadalupe River Park since 1993 has served as a tangible symbol of the enduring bond between San Jose and its oldest sister city, Okayama.
Fast Fact
The sister city relationship between San Jose, California, and Okayama, Japan, was established in 1957, making it San Jose's longest-standing international partnership.
Details of the Disappearance
The San Jose Office of Cultural Affairs announced the theft on Tuesday, October 17, stating the statue vanished prior to October 15. Images released by the agency show that the main body of the statue was cut down and removed, leaving behind only the hollow shoes of Momotaro and the feet of his animal companions.
Authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident. The San Jose Police Department is asking anyone with information to contact their non-emergency line at 408-277-8900 and reference case number 25-288-0623.
"This statue was an important and beloved part of our community, symbolizing a decades-long relationship with our sister city, Okayama," a representative from the San Jose Office of Cultural Affairs stated.
A Pattern of Public Art Thefts in San Jose
The theft of the Momotaro statue is not an isolated incident in San Jose. The city has experienced a series of public art thefts in recent years, raising concerns about the security of its cultural assets.
Recent Incidents
- In January 2024, a significant sculpture valued at $100,000 and weighing over 600 pounds was stolen from an art studio parking lot near San Jose Mineta International Airport. A suspect was later arrested, but the artwork had already been sold for parts at a local scrap yard.
- In 2023, another sculpture was taken from Guadalupe River Park. This piece commemorated Pune, India, another one of San Jose's sister cities, depicting a 17th-century ruler on horseback. Fortunately, authorities recovered this statue within days, mostly intact.
These recurring thefts highlight a vulnerability in the city's public art installations. The incidents underscore the challenges faced by urban areas in protecting cultural heritage displayed in open, accessible spaces.
Guadalupe River Park
Guadalupe River Park is a sprawling 120-acre urban park situated along the banks of the Guadalupe River in downtown San Jose. It features over 2 miles of trails, a vibrant rose garden, and a historic orchard, making it a central green space for residents and visitors alike.
Community Impact and Call for Vigilance
The disappearance of the Momotaro statue has saddened many in the San Jose community. It represents more than just a piece of art; it is a symbol of international friendship and cultural exchange.
The ongoing investigations into these thefts emphasize the need for increased vigilance and community involvement in protecting public artworks. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity around public installations to local authorities.
The San Jose Police Department has not yet provided further details on the current investigation into the Momotaro statue theft. The community hopes for a swift recovery of the cherished artwork.