Bührle Foundation Faces Scrutiny Over Nazi-Looted Art, Seeks Zurich Funding
The Bührle Collection, housed in the Kunsthaus Zurich, is once again under intense scrutiny regarding the provenance of it’s artworks, many acquired during the Nazi era. The Bührle Foundation has committed to funding further research into the collection’s history, requesting three million Swiss francs from the city of Zurich to support this endeavor. This request comes eleven months after a critical report highlighted the inadequacies of previous provenance research.
Foundation’s Commitment and City’s Role
The Bührle Foundation and the Zurich Art Society (ZKG) have agreed on guidelines for addressing art potentially looted by the Nazis. The ZKG will oversee provenance research for the collection over the next five years. The Kunsthaus zurich will continue its existing research, but the foundation’s delay in responding to the need for thorough inquiry has drawn criticism.
The City Of zurich, which holds a seat in the Kunsthausgesellschaft, is expected to approve the funding request. this financial support is deemed necessary as the extended research exceeds the Kunsthaus’s regular budget.
Concerns Over Independence and Scope
Critics, including restitution experts and representatives of victim families, express concerns that the proposed research framework may delay genuine resolution. Lawyer Olaf Ossmann, an expert on restitution issues, suggests that the current activities may hinder rather than help the restitution process. Concerns have also been raised that the research will be conducted by individuals who previously worked under Lukas Gloor, the former head of the Bührle Foundation, potentially compromising its independence.
Despite the Federal Council’s declaration of an independent expert commission for historically burdened cultural heritage in November 2023, its formation is still under negotiation. This delay means that the Kunsthaus will conduct its research without external oversight for the next five years.
The Bührle Family’s Absence and Ongoing Debate
The Bührle Foundation states it is “striving for fair and fair solutions” regarding works with potentially problematic histories, adhering to the Washington principles.The foundation plans three new exhibitions exploring the ancient context, including the role of Jewish collectors and Emil Bührle’s activities as an art collector and arms manufacturer.
The absence of Gratian Anda, a grandson and heir of Emil Georg Bührle, from the public discourse is notable. Anda, as President of the Foundation Collection EG Bührle, plays a notable role in the presentation of the art but has remained silent on the controversy.
Jewish Organizations’ Mixed Reactions
while some Jewish organizations have welcomed the Foundation’s announcement, others remain critical.The Foundation Against Racism and Anti-Semitism (GRA) argues that the lack of independence in the provenance research and the exclusion of approximately 400 works from the investigation are significant shortcomings.
Managing Director Philip Bessermann questions the credibility of the Zurich Art Society in conducting impartial research, citing past statements from its head.He also calls for shared financing of the research and a discussion about renaming the exhibition.
International Interest and Future Steps
an international Jewish collector told Tachles that there seems to be no political will in Switzerland to solve the Bührle saga with moral strength. According to information, American bodies now wont to take a closer look at the Causa Bührle.
A motion is planned in the Zurich municipal council that Raphael gross and his team wants to include for provenance research.
Key Aspects of the Bührle Collection Controversy
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Provenance Research | Led by Zurich Art Society (ZKG), funded by the City of Zurich. |
| criticism | Lack of independence, exclusion of works, family silence. |
| Funding Request | CHF 3 million from the City of Zurich. |
| Family Absence | Gratian Anda’s lack of public comment. |
| Jewish Reaction | Mixed, with concerns about independence. |
Pro Tip: Always check museum websites for updates on provenance research and exhibition details before visiting.
Did you know? The Washington Principles on Nazi-Confiscated Art, established in 1998, provide a framework for addressing issues of art looted during the Nazi era. Learn More
What measures do you think museums should take to ensure the ethical display of art with potentially problematic origins? How can the public hold institutions accountable?
The Ongoing Importance of Provenance Research
Provenance research is crucial for understanding the complete history of artwork,especially concerning pieces that changed hands during conflict periods. It ensures clarity and assists in the restitution of looted art to rightful owners or their heirs.The Bührle Collection case highlights the complexities and sensitivities surrounding art acquired during World War II.
In February 2024, the Art Recovery International reported a surge in claims related to Nazi-looted art, underscoring the continued relevance of this issue. Art Recovery International
Frequently Asked Questions About the Bührle Collection Controversy
- What Is The Bührle Collection? The Bührle Collection is a collection of Impressionist and modern art assembled by Emil Bührle, an arms manufacturer.
- Why Is The Bührle Collection Controversial? The Bührle Collection is controversial because many of the artworks were acquired during the Nazi era, raising questions about their provenance and potential Nazi looting.
- What Is Provenance Research? Provenance research is the investigation into the history of ownership of a work of art, especially to determine its authenticity and whether it was legally acquired.
- Who Is Funding The Provenance Research Of The Bührle Collection? The City Of Zurich is being asked to fund the provenance research of the Bührle Collection with three million Swiss francs.
- What Are the Washington Principles? The washington Principles are a set of guidelines established in 1998 to address the issue of Nazi-confiscated art and to facilitate its restitution to rightful owners.
- why is Independence Important In Provenance Research? Independence is crucial in provenance research to ensure impartiality and avoid conflicts of interest, leading to a more objective and credible investigation.
- What is the Role of the Zurich Art Society (ZKG) in this?The Zurich Art Society (ZKG) is tasked with overseeing the provenance research of the Bührle Collection over the next five years.
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