Saving van Eyck and Leonardo da Vinci, The Power of Art in the Era of World War II

Abstract

What appears at first glance as inanimate objects or structures, works of art have the ability to attain great influence and power. Few events highlight their power better than actions taken in World War II. During World War II, the fate of many artworks became uncertain as Adolf Hitler and Hermann Göring set out to plunder Western Europe of its rich culture and precious art works for Germany’s gain. A particular lover of art himself, Hitler saw certain works of art as more desirable than others. He wanted to build the Führer museum in his adopted hometown of Linz, which would house artwork of his choosing from all over Europe. This included a number of early modern pieces such as...