Nazi-looted painting discovered in home of Dutch SS commander's heirs

Art detective Arthur Brand announced that Toon Kelder’s painting Portrait of a Young Girl has been found hanging in a home near Utrecht in the possession of heirs of Dutch SS commander Hendrik Seyffardt. Brand said the work matches item No. 92 from a 1940 auction of art looted from Amsterdam dealer Jacques Goudstikker, supported by a “Collectie Goudstikker” label and the number 92 on the back. Because the statute of limitations has expired and the Dutch Restitutions Commission’s authority is limited to national collections, Brand said public disclosure was the main route to encourage voluntary return to Goudstikker’s heirs. A family member who contacted Brand said he felt “deep shame” and wanted the painting returned, while the current owner told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf she did not know it was looted and the family is discussing restitution.

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