Overview

• Reporting attributed to the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger confirms the artwork cost €135,000 and was paid for by the state-owned Bau- und Liegenschaftsbetrieb.
• The commissioned piece, described as a blue wall tapestry with LED elements, was created by Cologne artist Astrid Klein and selected via a design competition.
• Greens budget expert Simon Rock questioned LRH President Brigitte Mandt’s role in choosing an expensive piece while urging frugality across government.
• An LRH spokeswoman said the funding level came from the state program and that the audit authority had no influence over the amount.
• Media attention and political questions have followed the disclosure, with no indication of investigations, reversals, or reimbursements at this time.