The situation
In February 2022, the museum was approached by the liquidators of the Lisser & Rosenkranz bank. They allege that in 1940 the Koenigs Collection was sold under duress during the Nazi regime, to the detriment of the bank and its shareholders. The museum always takes allegations of this kind seriously and investigated the matter thoroughly, drawing on extensive archive material and previous research.
The research reveals a different picture. Franz Koenigs borrowed a sum of more than 1.8 million guilders from the bank. It was contractually agreed that if Koenigs was unable to repay the loan, his art collection would be used to settle the debt. However, the outstanding amount was repaid in full. It is also clear that Koenigs and the bank executives worked closely on the matter, in keeping with their friendship. In other words, since there was no involuntary loss of property, the situation of involuntary loss of property suffered by private individuals or art dealers under the Nazi regime does not apply in this case. The liquidators’ claim raises a different issue.
Provenance investigation by the Dutch Restitutions Committee
The article published in the NRC newspaper implies that the museum is unwilling to assist the Dutch Restitutions Committee with its investigation into the provenance of the Koenigs Collection. This is not true.
- On several occasions in recent years, the Koenigs Collection and the sale of the collection in April-June 1940 in settlement of Franz Koenigs’ debt have been investigated by independent national and international authorities, including the Dutch Restitutions Committee and the UK Spoliation Advisory Panel. There have been several (legal) proceedings. In each case, ownership claims pertaining to the Koenigs Collection have been declared unfounded. The museum has always rendered every assistance; providing information and responding diligently to all inquiries.
For more information about these previous applications for restitution see:
Advice concerning the Application for Restitution of the Koenigs Collection - 2003
Recommendation in the case of Koenigs III (Kiev claim) - 2014
Report of the Spoliation Advisory Panel - (Rubens paintings - Courtauld Institute) - 2024 - The liquidators of the Lisser & Rosenkranz bank have submitted an application for restitution of works in the Koenigs Collection owned by the Dutch State. The museum is actively assisting with the ongoing investigation and has provided extensive documentation. The decision on the matter is expected to be published later this year. The museum considers it appropriate to await the outcome of the investigation.
Transparency and accessibility
For years, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen has been open and transparent about the provenance of its collection, including the Koenigs Collection.
- Detailed research findings and sources have been published online.
- Previous claims have been investigated by independent authorities.
- In the past, the museum has always cooperated with requests for restitution where there were grounds to do so.
This information is available to everyone on the museum’s website. The Koenigs Collection - Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen and Restitutions, ongoing and settled restitution claims - Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen.
In conclusion
The events surrounding the Second World War and possibly illicit art transactions need to be treated with great care and respect. The museum recognises the importance of fair restitution where it is warranted. At the same time, public debate must be based on a complete picture of the facts.
The museum remains committed to transparency, rigorous research and collaboration with independent experts.