The Art Law Report Providing timely updates and commentary on legal issues in the museum and visual arts communities

Tag Archives: Max Ernst

Beltracchi and Forgers Sentenced in Cologne

Posted in Connoisseurship, Forgery

The forgery trial in Cologne ended yesterday with the sentencing of Wolfgang Beltracchi and his co-defendants for their now-infamous forgeries and sale of the fictional “Werner Jäger” collection-the name of his wife’s grandfather. Beltracchi was sentenced to 6 years, consistent with the deal struck last month with prosecutors, the other defendants (including his wife) to… Continue Reading

Confession in German Forgery Trial

Posted in Connoisseurship, Forgery, Intellectual Property, Restitution

On the heels of yesterday’s interruption and pressure from the presiding judge to accept a six-year sentence, the accused leader of a forgery ring in Germany apparently confessed today to 14 forgeries.  It’s been reported that he said that he enjoyed fooling collectors and experts.  It is anticipated that the other defendants will receive similar… Continue Reading

German Forgery Trial Update-Deal Offered?

Posted in Connoisseurship, Forgery, Intellectual Property, Restitution

We have been following with interest the trial in Cologne, Germany of four accused forgers.  The trial began at the beginning of the month.  Wolfgang Beltracchi, 60, is accused of organizing a scam that defrauded art collectors out of millions of dollars.  Comedian, actor, and writer Steve Martin is among the most high-profile victims.  The… Continue Reading