The Aftermath of Schiele and the Museum of Modern Art

Abstract

The collections of many museums are being undermined daily by claims of ownership. When an object in the collection of a public institution is in contention, then, the real loss is to the audience. Two areas of concern have increased: government intervention and the repercussion of the looting during World War II. At an art museum, for example, precious objects that often play a major part in the museum fulfilling its mission may be plagued with Nazi era provenance issues. A recent exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) focusing on the work of Austrian painter Egon Schiele sparked fear as questions of provenance came forward and, subsequently two works were seized by the District Attorney of New York. In the aftermath of such events, museums may wonder if putting contested works on view may be the demise of their collection.