The World Jewish Congress has welcomed the publication by French publisher Flammarion of Nazi leader Hermann Göring's catalogue of more than 1,750 works of art looted by the Nazis from Jews and others during World War II, including paintings by Botticelli, Velazquez, Renoir, Monet and Van Gogh, as well as sculptures and tapestries.
Previously accessible only to scholars and others with special authorization, this comprehensive record of the theft committed by Nazi Germany is now accessible to the general public.
"I am certain that the availability of this new book with the detailed information it contains will enable owners of looted works of art or their heirs to recover their property," said WJC President Ronald S. Lauder.
"The restoration of such works to their rightful owners is a long overdue but essential measure of justice. The book will also help to educate the general public, and especially the young, about the Nazis' utter venality that accompanied their monstrous barbarity."
