LONDON.- Detectives are appealing for information following the theft of Henry Moore's Sundial, 1965. This is a bronze sculpture measuring 56cm high. It was taken from the sculpture grounds of The Henry Moore Foundation in Perry Green, Herts, Moore's former home.

The theft occurred sometime between 4.30 pm on Tuesday July 10th and 11am on Wednesday July 11th.

The sculpture had been situated in the gardens of Hoglands, Moore's house. It was located so as to be viewed from the large sitting room.

Detective Inspector Paul Watts, who is leading the investigation said: "This Sundial sculpture is a valuable piece and we are very keen to speak to anyone who may have seen it since 4.30 pm yesterday (July 10th). If you have any information in relation to this incident, please contact police immediately on 101, or alternatively Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

'We are deeply saddened about the loss of Sundial from the gardens of Henry Moore's former home and are helping the police in the hope it may be recovered. We take our care of Henry Moore's sculptures extremely seriously and have installed heightened security measures here in recent years. We would be grateful if anyone with information would contact the police.'

The Henry Moore Foundation maintains the artist's home, studios and grounds in Hertfordshire, as well as the world's largest collection of Moore's sculpture, drawings, graphics, textiles and tapestries. This collection is managed from Perry Green by the curatorial staff who are actively involved in the research, support and curating of Moore's work worldwide.