The stealing of the art and architecture of Europe was an effective means of gaining power and plundered wealth for the Nazi party and its leaders in Germany before and throughout the second world war.
The Nazis systematically stole art and wealth from European Jews, and others, in an attempt to destroy the culture of Europe and replace it according to their own destructive ideology.
Often referred to as Nazi plunder, the theft of the art and architecture of Europe occurred from 1933 until the end of the war. The theft and transport of artworks was mostly carried out by military units known as the Kunstschutz. In addition to gold, silver and currency, cultural items of great significance were stolen, including paintings, ceramics, books, and religious treasures.
Most of these items were recovered by agents of the Monuments, Fine Arts, and Archives program (MFAA), affectionately referred to as the Monuments Men, on behalf of the Allies immediately following the war, but many are still missing to this day. Some are the subject of ongoing controversy and legal proceeding.
Seeing the documentary film, The Rape of Europa, is an excellent way to learn the story.
From the film's web site: In a journey through seven countries, the film takes the audience into the violent whirlwind of fanaticism, greed, and warfare that threatened to wipe out the artistic heritage of Europe. For twelve long years, the Nazis looted and destroyed art on a scale unprecedented in history. But young art professionals as well as ordinary heroes, from truck drivers to department store clerks, fought back with an extraordinary effort to safeguard, rescue and return the millions of lost, hidden and stolen treasures.
See the trailer below. Watch the entire film here: The Rape of Europa.
As time passes and first-hand knowledge of this period in history fades, it is expected that many lost treasures will surface. The art world is watching and waiting... and this vigilance is as powerful as any bomb, because it reminds would-be oppressors that the artist's muse bears witness to history and her admirers will not forget.
This site is for educational purposes only. Some images may be subject to copyrite. Created by Julie Fisher, 2017-2018. julie@juliefisher.net
