- Background & Significance
The painting is “Portrait of a Lady” (also known as Portrait of a Woman or Contessa Colleoni) by Italian Baroque artist Giuseppe Vittore Ghislandi (Fra Galgario).
It was originally owned by Jacques Goudstikker, a Jewish Dutch art dealer whose collection—over 1,100 artworks—was forcibly sold to the Nazis in 1940. Most of his collection was later restituted or recovered, but this specific portrait remained missing.
- Rediscovery via Real Estate Listing
In August 2025, Dutch journalists from Algemeen Dagblad (AD) identified the painting in a real estate listing for a home in Mar del Plata, Argentina. The portrait appeared prominently above a sofa in interior photos from a 3D tour.
The property is owned by the daughters of Friedrich Kadgien, a senior Nazi official and financial aide to Hermann Göring. Kadgien fled to Argentina after WWII.
- Investigation & Removal
Following the discovery, Interpol alerted Argentine authorities, who conducted a raid. However, the painting itself was not found—it had been removed, replaced by a large tapestry hanging in its place. Investigators noted wall hooks and marks suggesting its recent removal.
Authorities seized items possibly related to the investigation, including drawings, engravings, period documents, and unregistered firearms.
- Expert Opinions & Restoration Efforts
Experts from the Netherlands’ Cultural Heritage Agency examined the listing images. They concluded there is “no reason to think this could be a copy,” though physical examination is needed for definitive confirmation.
Goudstikker’s heir, Marei von Saher, is pursuing every legal avenue to recover the painting and restore her family’s legacy.
- Summary Table
Detail Information
Artwork Portrait of a Lady by Giuseppe Ghislandi
Original Owner Jacques Goudstikker (Jewish art dealer, Netherlands)
Looted By Nazis; part of Goudstikker’s collection forcibly sold to Hermann Göring
Apparent Location Real estate listing in Mar del Plata, Argentina (owned by Kadgien’s descendants)
Current Status Painting not found in police raid; believed to have been removed
Legal Focus Investigations into concealment of contraband; potential charges for Kadgien’s daughters
Recovery Efforts Ongoing pursuit by heirs; supported by Dutch heritage officials
- Conclusion
The serendipitous spotting of this long-lost painting via a real estate ad has reignited global efforts to locate and restitute Nazi-looted art. Though its physical whereabouts remain unknown, the investigation underscores both the challenges and the unwavering commitment to restoring cultural heritage stolen during WWII.