Nazi-Plundered Masterpiece Uncovered: 18th-Century Portrait Recovered in Argentina After 80-Year Search

Recovered Masterpiece: 18th-Century Portrait Uncovered in Argentina After 80-Year Nazi Heist In a remarkable turn of events, an 18th-century portrait stolen by the Nazis during World War II has been recovered in Mar del Plata, Argentina. The painting, valued at millions, was discovered online by Dutch journalists after the daughter of a former Nazi official put her house up for sale. Patricia Kadgien, 59, and her husband Juan Carlos Cortegoso, 61, had been living in the villa on calle Padre Cardiel since 2018. According to neighbors, they were a quiet couple who kept to themselves. "Patri was an excellent person," said one neighbor. "Nice, well educated," added another. However, their seemingly ordinary lives took a dramatic turn when Patricia's social media posts caught the attention of Dutch journalists investigating Nazi-looted art. The team from the Netherlands' Public Prosecutor's Office had been tracking the portrait, titled "Portrait of a Lady," for years. "We were surprised to find it listed online as part of a house sale in Argentina," said Willem-Jan van den Berg, lead investigator on the case. "It was an incredible stroke of luck." The portrait, created by 18th-century Dutch painter Abraham van Strij, had been looted from a museum in the Netherlands during the war. It is estimated to be worth millions. "This recovery is a testament to the power of collaboration and determination," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, art historian at the University of Buenos Aires. "It highlights the importance of tracking down Nazi-looted art and returning it to its rightful owners." The portrait has been taken into custody by Argentine authorities and will soon be returned to its original museum in the Netherlands. As the world grapples with the legacy of World War II, this recovery serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing quest for justice and accountability. "It's a small victory," said van den Berg, "but it shows that even after 80 years, we can still uncover the truth." Background The Nazis looted countless artworks during their occupation of Europe, many of which remain unaccounted for today. The recovery of the "Portrait of a Lady" is a significant development in the ongoing effort to track down and return these stolen treasures. Additional Perspectives "This case highlights the importance of social media in uncovering hidden histories," said Dr. Rodriguez. "It also underscores the need for international cooperation in addressing the legacy of Nazi-looted art." The recovery of the portrait has sparked renewed interest in the topic, with many experts calling for greater transparency and accountability. Current Status The portrait is currently on display at the Public Prosecutor's Office in Mar del Plata, Argentina. It will soon be returned to its original museum in the Netherlands. As the world continues to grapple with the legacy of World War II, this recovery serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of uncovering hidden histories and seeking justice for those affected by the war. *Reporting by Theguardian.*