The Emil Bührle Collection contains many unique works of great art-historical value. At the same time, it is extremely controversial owing to the way in which it was acquired. This conflict needs to be acknowledged. The Kunsthaus Zürich believes that this collection should be displayed: The works themselves are in no way implicated in the unimaginable crimes committed by the National Socialists. They do, however, bear witness to them. They can encourage us to commemorate the victims of Nazi terror, remember their fates, and reassess Switzerland’s role in the Second World War.

The exhibition is a first step in an extended process. It raises questions, but can only begin to provide answers. It outlines the historical context in which the Emil Bührle Collection was assembled and reveals the close ties between the Zürcher Kunstgesellschaft and Emil Bührle. It shows the current status of provenance research into the history of some works that were owned by Jewish collectors who fell victim to Nazi persecution. The Kunsthaus wants to talk about these issues.

The exhibition shows more than half of the works from the E. G. Bührle Collection Foundation and is organised in three phases. After opening in November 2023, it will go into greater depth in terms of content in spring 2024, with additions including a programme of accompanying events. A third phase will follow the publication of the final report by the historian Raphael Gross in summer 2024, who is currently reviewing the provenance research carried out by the Foundation E. G. Bührle Collection.

The exhibition begins in the past and ends with questions about the future. A range of opinions are presented in audio and video statements. We would also like you to tell us what you think and feel. The digital visitor survey and the wall in the last room of the exhibition, where you can place your questions and opinions, are your opportunity to do so. In this way, you will become part of the process in which the Kunsthaus is re-examining its role in society.

Update from 14 June 2024

The Kunsthaus Zürich has been informed by the E. G. Bührle Collection Foundation that it is seeking solutions with the legal successors of the former owners for six works in the collection.

The Board of Trustees has reassessed the provenance of the works. The reason for this is the new "Best Practices" for dealing with Nazi-looted art published by the US State Department in March 2024. These represent an expanded interpretation of the so-called "Washington Principles" of 1998. This practice corresponds to the new provenance strategy adopted by the Kunsthaus Zürich in March 2023.

We welcome this step and the position of the Emil Bührle Collection Foundation, even if we regret that five of the paintings will be removed from the rooms of the Kunsthaus by the Bührle Foundation from Thursday 20 June, with a view to our visitors. However, the Foundation is acting in accordance with the subsidy agreement with the City of Zurich and the provisions of the permanent loan agreement.

Press release from the E.G. Bührle Collection Foundation (German)

Statement of the Kunsthaus Zürich in the Bührle Collection case

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