Mauritshuis Wins Legal Battle to Keep Bredius Bequest Including Five Rembrandts

A Dutch court ruled that the Mauritshuis in The Hague does not have to return 25 paintings bequeathed by former director Abraham Bredius, including five Rembrandts, despite the works not being permanently displayed. The will, drafted in Monaco in 1944, stated in French that the works "devront rester exposés exclusivement dans ledit Musée" (must remain exclusively exhibited in that museum). Heirs of Bredius's partner Joseph Kronig argued that storing some paintings in a depot violated the terms. The court interpreted the phrase as allowing temporary storage for rotation. Heir Otto Kronig expressed disappointment, stating the court prioritized museum practicality over the testator's wishes. Lawyer Gert Jan van den Bergh plans to appeal. The Mauritshuis welcomed the decision, asserting it has always handled the bequest with care. The collection includes works by Jan Steen, Salomon van Ruysdael, and Rembrandt's Saul and David and Two African Men. Sociologist Olav Velthuis warned that a successful appeal could deter future donations, as museums cannot guarantee permanent display. The case echoes a 2025 dispute where London dealer Angus Neill sought return of a Bellini-attributed painting from the National Gallery after it was removed from display.