Minister removes protected status from painting, freeing way for its return to original Jewish owners

The minister of culture, Daniel Herman, has removed protected status from a painting in the possession of the Czech National Gallery, clearing the way for its return to members of the Jewish family that originally owned it. The family had been awarded the 18th century work by Francesco Solimen – which was seized from them by the Nazis – in a restitution hearing; however, its status as belonging to the Czech cultural heritage meant it could not be taken out of the country.

Author: Ian Willoughby