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Argentina Secures Nazi-Looted Ghislandi Portrait as Kadgien Couple Face Charges

Prosecutors in Mar del Plata cite a broader cache of seized art in filing embezzlement counts.

Overview

  • The 18th-century painting Porträt einer Dame by Giuseppe Ghislandi was handed over by the Kadgien family's lawyer to Mar del Plata authorities after initial searches found only a tapestry where it had hung.
  • Dutch newspaper AD journalists spotted the long-missing work in a real-estate listing for a Mar del Plata home, triggering an investigation supported by Argentine authorities, Interpol and art experts.
  • Patricia Kadgien and her husband were placed under house arrest and charged with embezzlement over their handling of the artworks, according to prosecutors.
  • Investigators report seizing additional pieces from family properties, including 22 works attributed to Henri Matisse, with provenance reviews now underway.
  • Art expert Ariel Bassano dated the portrait to about 1710, said it is in good condition and estimated its market value at roughly $43,000 to $50,000, noting its origin in Jacques Goudstikker's looted collection.