Introduction

The astronomer falls off the flatbed truck, the falconer is afraid of a lion. Mona Lisa worries about red spots. Being "degenerate" hurts.

The Artworks' Perspective

The artworks themselves know best what it feels like to be systematically looted, deported, hidden, sold, and humiliated under the Nazi regime: paintings by some of the most famous artists of past centuries describe their personal experiences in letters, expressing their gratitude or pleading for help.

The Addressee

The addressee: Rose Valland, a French art historian and resistance fighter. It was her commitment, foresight and courage that contributed significantly to the rescue of the art treasures.

Significance of the Book

The book is another important step in keeping the darkest chapter of German history in memory.