Altenburg in view: Exhibition shows art treasures after 1945!

Altenburg in view: Exhibition shows art treasures after 1945!

On October 23, 2025 at 6 p.m., the Lindenau Museum in Altenburg will inaugurate the fourth ART WALL for provenance research. This exhibition shows important works that were transferred to the museum from Altenburg and the surrounding area after 1945. The presentation is particularly dedicated to the new additions from the region in the first decade after the Second World War, which represents an important part of the museum and city's history.

Under the leadership of Hanns-Conon von der Gabelentz, who was appointed full-time director in 1951, the Lindenau Museum's holdings grew considerably. During this time, over 50 works of art entered the collection, which were sold by local art and book dealers such as Julius Brauer and Hermann Bennewitz. The upcoming KUNSTWAND presents a total of eight exhibits that were acquired during this critical time, providing an insight into the region's art and cultural history.

Collaboration and supporting program

The exhibition is the result of a collaboration with various institutions, including the Thuringia State Archives, the Altenburg District Archives and the Altenburg City Archives. In addition to the opening ceremony, tours of the KUNSTWAND are planned for October 26th and December 27th, 2025, as well as an evening lecture on November 24th, 2025. The presentation can be seen from October 24th, 2025 to January 11th, 2026 and admission is free.

Provenance research has become increasingly important in recent years. An example of this is the graphic collection of the Lindenau Museum, which grew significantly between 1951 and 1961 under the direction of Gabelentz and his research assistant Helmut Scherf. During this time, the first entry book was introduced, in which every work of art is recorded.

Important developments in provenance research

The entry book allows a detailed evaluation of the growth in the collection. In addition to the acquisition of paintings and sculptures, which were generally more expensive, the graphic collection also pursued a broader focus in terms of content. Gabelentz and Scherf specifically purchased works by artists who were more accessible and often less expensive in the field of graphics, including contemporary artists such as Otto Dix and Hans Körnig.

The first exhibition results of this research work will be presented in advance in the KUNSTWAND presentation "On the wall or in the poison cabinet? New additions to the graphic collection from 1934 to 1961". This flagship exhibition will take place from October 18, 2024 to January 14, 2025 in the interim of the Lindenau Museum and will be accompanied by an accompanying publication.

Through these initiatives, the Lindenau Museum not only strengthens its profile as a cultural-historical center, but also raises awareness of the practical and ethical aspects of provenance research in today's art world. An important step in understanding the past and uncovering the stories behind the works of art.

For more information about the opening and events, please visit ABG network or Lindenau Museum.