The Ashmolean recognizes its moral duties with respect to works of art that may have been looted or sold under duress, especially by Jewish families, during the period of Nazi control of parts of Europe between 1933 and 1945. The Museum acts in accordance with professional and legal guidelines, especially the “Statement of principles” issued by the National Museums Directors’ Conference in 1998. It seeks to research provenances with specific reference to this period and to make all resulting information promptly and freely available. It is our policy proactively to inform potential claimants or the bodies that represent them in cases where any sensitive provenances are found. Claims that may be received are referred to the Spoliation Advisory Committee set up by HM Government.
Enquiries about claims currently under consideration by the Spoliation Advisory Committee should be directed to the Press Office of the DCMS.
See the Cultural Property Advice website.
