Arte film 'Das gestohlene Bild' explores Nazi-looted Egon Schiele painting discovery

Auctioneer André Masson, played by Alex Lutz, works at the renowned auction house Scottie’s. He receives a letter indicating an Egon Schiele original has surfaced in Mulhouse at the home of factory worker Martin. Initially skeptical, Masson travels there with his colleague and ex-wife Bertina, portrayed by Léa Drucker. They discover the painting appears authentic, sparking excitement for a career boost. However, the artwork's provenance reveals it was looted by the Nazis from a Jewish collector, classifying it as Raubkunst. Masson must navigate competing claims from the collector's heirs, his auction house's interests, and the worker family's situation to proceed with the sale. He is aided by Bertina and intern Aurore, played by Louise Chevillotte, who questions the art world's power dynamics. The film 'Das gestohlene Bild' premieres on Arte on April 8 and remains available in the Arte-Mediathek until May 7.