Ghent museum refuses return of Nazi-looted painting – DW – 12/23/2025

A 17th‑century portrait in Ghent is at the center of a restitution dispute after research confirmed it was looted from Jewish art dealer Samuel Hartveld during the Nazi occupation. His heirs say they were never compensated, while Belgium still lacks a clear framework for returning Nazi‑stolen art. The case highlights growing pressure on the country to investigate its museum collections and address restitution claims.