ART THEFT, WORLD WAR II AND MUSEUM ETHICS

Greetings Museum Lovers-

I am a relatively new member to museum-l and I have enjoyed reading your
posts. As a student I am excited to participate in your discussions. What a
wealth of information you all are!!

I am a graduate student in the Arts Administration program at the
University of Oregon and am currently involved in writing my thesis.  I
have chosen a topic involving art theft, specifically the looting of works
during World War II, ethics and  museums.  I just finished reading The Lost
Museum by Hector Feliciano and was amazed.  I’d not only like to recommend
the book for anyone interested in art theft or involved with museums but
would also like to hear your thoughts on the issues raised by the book.

Specifically, as a museum professional, how would you handle a situation
where you found that your collection included a work that was stolen from a
Jewish family by the Nazis over 50 years ago?  The original family heirs
want the painting back and the painting is worth a considerable sum to the
museum.  How does your museum protect itself from getting involved in this
type of dilemma?  What resources would you call on to guide you through
this type of situation?

If you are interested in discussing these issues you may email me directly.

Thanks.

Ansje Burdick
Arts Administration
University of Oregon