Creative Commons

This dissertation was written as part of the MA in Art, Law, and Economy at the International Hellenic University. There is a current case in the courts regarding the subject, and a state is being sued. This dissertation shows many aspects concerning the Guelph Treasure and its problems of restitution. The main topic is whether the Guelph treasure is, in fact, Nazilooted art or if it was purchased under rightful conditions in 1935. The collection of information from this period gives a more unobstructed view of this current situation. Books, newspapers and published journals helped to collate and combine information. The period between 1933-1945 was challenging, and our generation certainly has to fix it. It would be an excellent start to compensate for any artifact looted during wartime. Research is focused on the restitution of the most valuable artifact Nazi Germany ever purchased. The first chapters distinguish and clarify the different definitions related to Nazi-looted art, the elucidation of what the Guelph treasure is and how it has been valuable over time. The fourth chapter interprets the current trial, the related laws and arguments of both parties with a possible outcome according to the research and laws.