paroolNov 15, 2026, 06:35

Auction of Van Gogh painting disputed over possible Nazi-era duress

An 1890 Van Gogh painting slated for a 180 million dollar auction in New York is facing legal scrutiny due to claims it may have been sold under Nazi-era pressure. Sotheby's is currently in discussions with the descendants of the original German owners to address these provenance concerns.

An 1890 painting by Vincent van Gogh is set to be auctioned by Sotheby's in New York with an estimated value of 180 million dollars. However, the sale faces a dispute from the descendants of the original owners, the German Fischer family. They claim the artwork might have been sold under financial duress during the rise of the Nazi regime, raising concerns about its provenance.

Sotheby's maintains that its own investigation did not uncover evidence of forced sale, yet the auction house states it is seeking a resolution with the family. The family's lawyer has demanded clear proof that the 1936 transaction occurred at fair market value and without political coercion. The painting, which was created in Auvers-sur-Oise, is the highlight of the upcoming fall auctions. It remains uncertain if the sale will proceed as scheduled on Wednesday evening while the parties continue to discuss the matter.

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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