About 1406 different piece of art were discovered by customs officials hidden in an apartment in Munich. These works include paintings by Picasso, Matisse, and Toulouse-Lautrec and all together are valued so high that a price tag is difficult to determine. Some of the artwork that was discovered has never been seen before. The vast collection spans through centuries and covers a wide range of different styles. Although the reasons behind the trove are not completely known, it is suspected that the works were either stolen or confiscated and condemned by Nazi officials. The artwork has been missing for over seventy years.
Reaction to the Find
The announcement of this find has caught the attention of art lovers around the world. The previously unseen works are particularly exciting for collectors. Historians and art experts have begun examining the paintings. There is some controversy as to what took so long to discover the precious works. Some theorize that the artwork was intentionally hidden and that the stash was known about by certain important art dealers.
What will be done with the artwork has not yet been announced, but many are calling for the artwork to be given back to families of the original owners. Officials say that this process will be tedious and take many years. Still others are pushing for the artwork to be donated to historical museums, where the artwork can be shared and enjoyed by all.