Documentary on Jewish dealer Max Stern's collection finds answers and absurdity
Briefly

The Spoils, directed by Jamie Kastner, investigates the art legacy of Max Stern and how his experiences during the Nazi era are represented in museum exhibitions in Düsseldorf. Featuring the Stadtmuseum's sanitized version of Stern's story, the film contrasts with earlier attempts to address the injustices of his past, including a cancelled exhibition in 2017. It raises questions about accountability, representation, and the true nature of art restitution, while also highlighting the reluctance of institutions and communities to engage fully with this troubled history.
The documentary explores the complex and controversial legacy of Jewish art dealer Max Stern, whose lost artwork and the exhibitions surrounding it spark deep discussions on restitution.
The film highlights the disparity between the sanitized narrative presented by the Stadtmuseum and the painful realities of Stern's experiences as a Jewish dealer fleeing Nazi atrocities.
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