Overview
- The new federal complaint in New York seeks the painting’s return and damages, alleging a Nazi-era forced sale and confiscation of proceeds from owners Hedwig and Frederick Stern.
- The heirs argue New York is the proper venue because the work was repeatedly trafficked, purchased, and sold in the city over decades.
- The Met acquired the canvas in 1956 for $125,000 and deaccessioned it in 1972 to Basil and Elise Goulandris; the painting is now displayed at the Goulandris Foundation museum in Athens.
- The suit contends Met curator Theodore Rousseau Jr., a leading expert on Nazi art looting, knew or should have known the work likely had tainted provenance.
- The Met says no record linked the painting to the Sterns during its ownership and it will review any new information, while the Goulandris Foundation rejects the claims and points to prior dismissals.