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Nazi-Auctioned Art Controversy Hits Rhode Island

Chris Boardman

Story Created: Nov 5, 2009 at 2:24 PM EDT

Story Updated: Nov 5, 2009 at 7:07 PM EDT

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Federal agents are investigating whether a Rhode Island woman broke the law after importing a painting taken from a Jewish art dealer and auctioned by the Nazis.

Maria-Luise Bissonnette said Thursday that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents searched her Providence apartment last week. She said the agents were investigating whether she transferred an illegally imported painting, an allegation she denies.

An ICE spokesman confirmed the search but wouldn't comment
further.

The 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a ruling last year
forcing Bissonnette to surrender a painting to the estate of late
Jewish art dealer Max Stern. In 1937, Germany's Nazi government forcibly auctioned off Stern's paintings, including one purchased by Bissonnette's stepfather. His stepdaughter inherited it.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Friday, Nov 6 at 3:00 PM jefftg wrote ...

The IRS must need a cut

31707156
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