A painting looted during Nazi occupation in Europe has been recovered in Argentina. The artwork, titled Portrait of a Lady, created by Italian artist Giuseppe Ghislandi, had been missing for 80 years. It was found on an estate agent’s website, featured in a home that belonged to Patricia Kadgien, the daughter of a former Nazi fugitive.
Friedrich Kadgien, Patricia’s father, served as an adviser to Hermann Göring, a key figure in the Nazi regime known for seizing artworks from across Europe. Authorities reported that the painting was returned by Kadgien’s lawyer after she and her husband were placed under house arrest during an investigation.
Art expert Ariel Bassano noted the painting is in “good condition” given its age, dating back to 1710, and he valued it at approximately $50,000. Investigations have revealed that other stolen artworks may also be discovered; during searches of properties associated with the family, two additional paintings and several drawings were found that are under scrutiny for potential links to wartime theft.
The couple is expected to face a hearing regarding charges of “concealment of theft in the context of genocide.” They claim to be the rightful heirs of the painting, which they state they inherited. Their lawyer expressed willingness to cooperate with authorities.
Initially part of Amsterdam art dealer Jacques Goudstikker’s collection, the painting is confirmed to have been stolen by the Nazis and is listed in a database of lost art. Although reports indicated it was removed shortly after it gained media attention, its legacy remains. Goudstikker’s family continues to seek the return of his stolen collection, having reclaimed 202 pieces since 2006.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdx26z142vko?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss