More than 600 items have been stolen from the Bristol Museum's collection, police have confirmed.
Avon and Somerset Police said detectives are investigating a "high-value burglary of museum artefacts" that took place in the early hours of 25 September.
Via a statement, a group of four men entered the building between 1am and 2am to steal the items, part of the museum's British Empire and Commonwealth collection.
More than 600 artefacts "of various descriptions" were taken from the museum, police said. These include medals, jewellery, decorative art items and natural history objects.
Philip Walker, head of culture and creative industries at Bristol City Council, said: "These artefacts were part of a collection that documents the links between Britain and countries formerly part of the British Empire from the late 18th century to the late 20th century.
"The collection is of cultural significance to many countries and provides an invaluable record and insight into the lives of those involved in and affected by the British Empire."
Security at Bristol Museum increased
Detectives have released images of four men captured on CCTV in the area and are asking for the public's help to identify them.
Officer in the case, DC Dan Burgan, said: “The theft of many items which carry a significant cultural value is a significant loss for the city.
"These items, many of which were donations, form part of a collection that provides insight into a multi-layered part of British history, and we are hoping that members of the public can help us to bring those responsible to justice."
So far, police have carried out "significant CCTV enquiries as well as forensic investigations", Burgan said.
Walker added: "We’re grateful for the support of Avon and Somerset Police and continue to work closely with officers to investigate this crime and seek to apprehend the offenders and recover these artefacts.
"Security at the facility has been tightened and members of our museum community have been informed."
Elsewhere, the Louvre is increasing its security measures following the theft of jewels worth €88 million from the institution in October.
Images courtesy of Bristol Museum / Avon and Somerset Police
