If you’re interested in learning more about the issues of Holocaust era looted art, these three articles are very much worth reading. They give a good overview, several specific examples, and informed insight into many of the issues on the subject.
In May 2006, Hadassah Magazine published an article by Marilyn Henry titled: Stolen Images. The brief introduction/description offered by the magazine says, “The Nazis confiscated art treasures from Jewish homes and businesses throughout Europe: Today, survivors and their heirs are tracking down these lost works and reclaiming them.” I was first made aware of the article by Keri Douglas on her website 9musesnews.com.
In 2001, Fordham International Law Journal (volume 25, issue 6) included a piece by Monica Dugot titled: The Holocaust Claims Processing Office’s Handling of Art Claims. The abstract of the paper reads, “Overview of the Holocaust Claims Processing Office (“HCPO”) and activities relating to Holocaust-era art claims filed with HCPO. Goes into the history of the HCPO and its mission to assist claimants seeking recovery of assets held in European banks, proceeds from Holocaustera insurance policies, and lost, looted, or stolen art. Overall it is a description of the Deputy Director’s work in this field over the prior four years.” When I first began exploring issues of World War Two art restitution, the HCPO was one of the first organizations I spoke with about the Moshe Rynecki story. I found their insights, guidance, and help to be incredibly informative.
In January 2013, Spiegel OnLine International published Steffen Winter’s article, “A Nazi Legacy Hidden in German Museums.” I found the discussion of the legacy of Nazi looting and how German museums and governments have chosen to respond and address the issue well worth reading.