Document Type

Blog Post

Publication Date

4-9-2025

Abstract

The looting of works of art during World War II represents one of the most significant cultural thefts in history, with the Nazi state seeking to enrich itself by seizing property of the people it persecuted. The Nazis systematically seized thousands of invaluable works of art and cultural assets from museums, galleries, and private collections across Europe. The methods of seizure ranged from barefaced theft to indirect means such as forcing individuals to sell their property to finance their flights into exile. Due to the fact that many works of art were not looted directly but seized through indirect means, property handed over or sold under duress are nonetheless considered to be cultural property expropriated as a result of Nazi persecution. Even decades later the repercussions of these thefts continue to reverberate through courtrooms around the world as rightful heirs continue to seek restitution for their family’s stolen heritage.

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