This is not the first time the Grünbaum family’s art collection has been at the center of a restitution battle.
The Art Institute of Chicago (AIC) contests allegations that their acquisition of Egon Schiele’s “Russian War Prisoner” involved Nazi looting. They argue the painting was lawfully sold by family members post-World War II.
Despite claims by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office linking it to Holocaust victim Fritz Grünbaum’s looted collection, AIC asserts there’s no evidence of Nazi confiscation.
A federal court previously ruled in AIC’s favor, stating they acquired the artwork in good faith. With no set court date, both parties await further legal proceedings. AIC stands firm on its ownership stance, emphasizing the lack of documented proof of Nazi seizure.
