The Dutch Government Agrees to Buy Rembrandt's Painting

The Dutch government has announced that it would devote €150 million ($170 million) to purchase Rembrandt's painting "The Standard Bearer". Additionally, €25 million ($28.4 million) will be paid by the Rembrandt Association and the Rijksmuseum, €10 million more than expected.

Many senators expressed concerns about the purchase despite the votes in favor. This work belonged to the Rothschild family and will be purchased via a trust in the Cook Islands. "How does this transaction relate to the policies of the Dutch government to combat tax avoidance?... Why is the state involved in such constructions?" one of the senators talked about his concern. Other concerns of Dutch senators are also ensuring the authenticity of the work and its ownership. As Gunay Uslu, the dutch minister of culture, stated, due diligence has been performed. As a former art historian and curator, Uslu viewed the painting as a prelude to Rembrandt's "The Night Watch" (1642) and also stated this work was "inextricably linked to the history of the Netherlands."

Despite the interest in purchasing this painting, in December 2021, France government announced that they were unable to raise sufficient funds to buy the painting which was designated a "national treasure". Before "The Standard Bearer" is displayed at the Rijksmuseum's Gallery of Honour, it will take a tour across the Netherlands.

Source:

• www.theartnewspaper.com