Two Separate Lawsuits Filed in California for Artworks Looted During the Nazi Era
Heirs of Holocaust victims have launched a legal battle in California, empowered by new legislation, to reclaim artworks in Los Angeles and Auschwitz.
Jewish heirs and representatives of Holocaust victims have filed two separate lawsuits in California seeking the return of works of art forcibly extorted by the Nazi regime. These steps mark the first legal actions taken following the enactment of new legislative frameworks at both the state and federal levels.
New Legal Regulations in California
Laws recently passed in California and Congress strengthen claims in the United States regarding works of art seized from Jewish families during World War II.
This new legal foundation offers an important opportunity for heirs of Holocaust victims to reclaim works exhibited in museums.
Lawsuit Filed Against the Norton Simon Museum
A lawsuit was filed in the Los Angeles Superior Court against the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena for the restitution of Lucas Cranach the Elder's 1530 paintings 'Adam and Eve'.
The lawsuit was brought forward by the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles and its board chair, Daniel Gryczman.
Federal Filing for Works in Auschwitz
On the same day, a separate lawsuit was filed in federal court in Los Angeles by the daughters of Dinah Gottliebova Babbitt, who was held at Auschwitz and forced to paint while in the concentration camp.
This lawsuit requests the return of works by the artist, who painted portraits of prisoners for Nazi doctor Josef Mengele.
Approach of Museums and Authorities
Spokespersons for both museums stated that they hold legal ownership of the artworks and will continue to exhibit them to the public.
While the Norton Simon Museum referred to previous court rulings, the Auschwitz Memorial argues that these works document Nazi crimes.