Hitler's long lost art collection found

[Thorlifter]

Adolf Hitler

A Czech historian has discovered a long-lost collection of paintings belonging to Adolf Hitler. The Telegraph reports that the unearthed works of art include a "massive" painting entitled "Memories of Stalingrad." Even though the battle of Stalingrad was one of the German army's most brutal defeats in World War II, the painting is said to have been one of Hitler's favorites.

Historians tell the Telegraph that the collection could be auctioned for about $2.6 million. However, the convent where the paintings were discovered has said in a statement that it intends to keep the collection. The collection was discovered by Jiri Kuchar, a Czech historian, in the town of Doskany, north of Prague.

Hitler had reportedly ordered the paintings to be hidden in a monastery in southern Bohemia but they were found by American forces during the war. But, exactly how the paintings disappeared and ended up in the convent remains a mystery.

German forces were notorious for stealing and hiding priceless works of art during Hitler's reign. A 2007 book, "Rescuing Da Vinci," by Robert M. Edsel, chronicles the efforts of American soldiers who recovered thousands of pieces of stolen and lost artwork during World War II.

And Hitler himself was an aspiring artist of sorts. You can view some of his paintings here.

Kuchar tells the Telegraph that there are still nine more paintings in the collection that have yet to be discovered. "I've got a feeling that many places will be reluctant to admit their favorite works of art have this unfortunate historical blemish," he said.



Oddly enough, Hitler does seem to be popping up in the news quite a bit lately. Less than two weeks ago, it was revealed that Hitler fathered a secret love child who actually fought against Nazi forces during the war. And exactly one month ago, I wrote about newly discovered, intimate photographs from inside Hitler's private residence.

[fubar57]

Great story Thorlifter. I always wonder what's left to be uncovered. Not just great works of art that were stolen and hidden but what's hidden in many unknown basements and attics around the world. My dad used to run an incinerator in my home town and every know and then would bring home a helmet, medal or some other piece of the war. How much was burned because unsuspecting family just cleaned house after a relative died. (My brother found 14,000$ in King George bills that were stored in an old 10 gallon oil can that was thrown out.)

[stona]

I wonder which historians have authenticated this.

I remember the fiasco over Hitler's Diaries which pretty much scuppered the carreers of Hugh Trevor Roper and Gerhard Weinberg. They may both have been emminent historians but you shag one sheep........

Cheers

Steve