Austria, 1907. A painting, later called "The Golden Lady", of Adele Bloch-Bauer, painted by Klimt
Despite the will of Ferdinand, Adèle's husband, indicating his wish to make his nephew and nieces the legitimate heirs, the painting ended up in the Belvedere Museum in Vienna, confiscated by the Nazis during the Second World War.
In 1998, Randy Schoenberg, a lawyer, met Adele's niece, Maria Altmann, who asked him to help her recover five paintings belonging to her family, including "The Golden Lady" valued at between 150 and 200 million euros!
Austria does not intend to return this masterpiece.
The legal battle can now begin. Maria Altmann's fight becomes that of her lawyer, who will take all the necessary steps to ensure that justice is done.
The case went all the way to the US Supreme Court in 2004, which waived Austria's legal immunity. Maria Altmann finally won her case in an independent arbitration in Austria. Five of the looted paintings were returned to her in Los Angeles in 2006.
This story brilliantly demonstrates the role of the lawyer and his involvement in a case: his rigour, his pugnacity and his humanity.
And it cannot do it alone! A trusting collaboration between a client and its consultant remains the key to success.
Cécile Zakine's firm remains at your side for a rigorous and human accompaniment because whatever the case, the litigant needs justice.
And if you fly to New York, head to the Neue Galerie to see the masterpiece...
Frequently asked questions
What is the 'Woman in Gold' case?
This is a famous Nazi looting case: the Klimt painting, 'Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer', was returned to the owner's niece after a legal battle reaching the US Supreme Court in 2004.
Can I recover property looted by the Nazis?
Yes, you can bring an action for restitution based on the ordinance of April 21, 1945. You must prove the spoliation and the identity of the owner. A specialized lawyer can help you.
What are the deadlines to act for restitution of spoliated works?
There is no statute of limitations for actions for restitution of property looted by the Nazis, but it is advisable to act quickly as evidence may disappear.
What to do if I discover that a painting from my family was looted?
Gather the documents (will, photos, deeds) and consult a lawyer specialized in art law. They can initiate research and a restitution procedure.
How much does a procedure for restitution of a work of art cost?
Fees vary greatly depending on the complexity and value of the work. A preliminary consultation is €45. A personalized quote is prepared after reviewing the file.
Lawyer in Antibes, registered with the Grasse Bar. Intervenes throughout France. Labour law, Litigation at work. Real estate litigation and co-ownership law. Construction problems (VEFA,..)Fast, motivated and committed response. Do not hesitate to contact the lawyer in Antibes: Maitre Zakine. or to make an appointment online for a consultation.
Possible consultation 45€/ 30 min by phone for a first consultation
