Restoration of History: Long-Lost Artwork Looted by Nazis Recovered in Argentina

Wed Oct 22 2025 14:10:02 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The recovery of a painting looted during the Nazi regime unveils stories of art, legacy, and the ongoing fight for justice among descendants of stolen art.

After eight decades of disappearance, a painting by Italian artist Giuseppe Ghislandi, 'Portrait of a Lady,' was recovered in Argentina. The artwork, linked to a Nazi advisor, was discovered on a property that belonged to the daughter of a fugitive from justice. As investigations continue, the case highlights the vital ongoing efforts to restore stolen art and bring accountability to those involved in its concealment.

A long lost painting looted decades ago in Nazi-occupied Europe has been recovered in Argentina, officials have said.

Portrait of a Lady, by Italian master Giuseppe Ghislandi, had been missing for 80 years before it was spotted last month on an estate agent's website, where a photo showed it hanging in a house that had belonged to the daughter of a Nazi fugitive.

Patricia Kadgien's late father Friedrich had been a top adviser to Hermann Goring, Adolf Hitler's deputy, who plundered thousands of works from across Europe.

Prosecutors said the artwork had now been returned by the lawyer of Ms Kadgien, who was under house arrest after a search of her property initially failed to find the painting.

Ariel Bassano, an art expert who worked on the case, told reporters it was in good condition for its age, as it dates from 1710 and valued it at around $50,000, according to local media.

Prosecutors earlier said raids at other properties linked to the family had turned up other pieces that may have been stolen during the war. Ms Kadgien and her husband had been ordered to remain under house arrest for three days after being questioned for obstructing the investigation.

The couple insist they are the rightful owners of the artwork, which they had inherited, according to Argentina's La Nacion newspaper. Their lawyer stated they would cooperate with the authorities during the investigation.

Overall, the painting was originally part of the collection of Amsterdam art dealer Jacques Goudstikker, and is included in a database of art stolen by the Nazis. Efforts continue by the heir of Goudstikker to reclaim artworks lost from the collection.