Revisionist History Hedwig’s Lost Van Gogh
Jun 25, 2020
Sophie Ullin, the great-granddaughter of Hedwig Ullmann, shares her family's poignant story of art lost and recovered during World War II. She discusses the journey of Van Gogh's 'Vase with Carnations,' highlighting its fluctuating value and connection to Hollywood. The conversation touches on the legacy of loss faced by Jewish families, the emotional complexities of art restitution, and the powerful role of art in family heritage. Ullin's insights illuminate the profound relationship between art and personal history.
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Vase with Carnations Journey
- Van Gogh's "Vase with Carnations," painted during his Paris period, has a unique history.
- It journeyed from a German couple to a Hollywood mogul, a Kmart heiress, and finally to the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA).
A Minor Van Gogh
- "Vase with Carnations" is considered a minor work by Van Gogh, likely used for experimentation.
- It lacks the spectacular composition and color of his more famous still lifes.
Value Tied to Attribution
- The painting's value is tied to its attribution to Van Gogh, not its inherent artistic merit.
- DIA Director Salvador Salort-Pons finds it interesting because its perceived value changed dramatically after being authenticated.