Hodler painting returned: a cross-border worker's story
A Hodler painting, sold under duress during the Nazi regime, is returned to the heirs. The story of Martha Nathan, a Swiss citizen and cross-border worker
Contesto
In brief - Hodler painting returned to heirs - Sold under duress in 1941 - Owner's story made public - Estimated value of the painting: 1.2 million Swiss francs ## Key facts - What: Restitution of "Thunersee mit Blüemlisalp und Niesen" - When: Agreement concluded in March 2026 - Where: Winterthur (ZH) - Who: SKGG Foundation and Nathan heirs - Amount: Not specified, but estimated between 1 and 1.5 million Swiss francs The oil painting "Thunersee mit Blüemlisalp und Niesen" (1876/1882) by Ferdinand Hodler will be returned to the heirs of the former Jewish owner Martha Adrianna Nathan. The Foundation for Art, Culture, and History (SKKG) in Winterthur and the heirs have reached an agreement. The painting has been part of the Zurich foundation's collection since 1998. Provenance research has shown that Martha Nathan was forced to sell it in 1941 due to Nazi persecution. ### The story of Martha Nathan Martha Adrianna Nathan, née Dreyfus, was of French origin and a descendant of the Dreyfus banking family of Frankfurt. She obtained Swiss citizenship in 1875 but lost it upon marrying Hugo Nathan and becoming a German citizen. After the rise of the Nazis to power, she was persecuted as a Jew. She regained her French citizenship in 1933 and fled to France in 1937. In 1939, she settled in Geneva, but after the occupation of France, Switzerland changed its practices: Nathan's request to be recognized as an "emigrant" was rejected, and she had to renew her residence permit every six months. Since 1938, Martha Nathan was forced to sell works from her art collection to support herself. "Without the sale of the painting, she would not have been able to demonstrate the necessary resources for the renewal of her residence permit," communicated the independent commission of the SKKG....
Dettagli operativi
Implications for Cross-Border Workers The story of Martha Nathan raises important questions about the condition of cross-border workers, especially during periods of political instability. The need to demonstrate financial resources for the renewal of the residence permit is a crucial aspect that can influence the lives of many cross-border workers. For example, a cross-border worker who works in Lugano and resides in Varese must demonstrate a minimum income of approximately 3,300 CHF per month for the permit renewal. This amount can vary depending on the composition of the family unit and individual circumstances. 📊 Checklist for Residence Permit Renewal: - Valid work contract - Last three pay slips - Income tax return - Valid identity documents - Proof of accommodation (rental agreement or ownership) - Any additional documents required by local authorities ### Historical Comparisons The situation of Martha Nathan can be compared to that of many cross-border workers today, who must navigate between Swiss and Italian regulations. The change in Swiss practices after the occupation of France is an example of how policies can change rapidly, affecting the lives of foreign residents. For example, in 2018, the Canton of Ticino introduced new regulations requiring cross-border workers to demonstrate stable and continuous income for a period of at least six months before applying for permit renewal. > "Regulations can change rapidly, and cross-border workers must always be prepared." ### Current Scenarios Today, cross-border workers must be aware of the current regulations and procedures for residence permit renewal. It is essential to have adequate financial documentation to avoid problems. The story of Martha Nathan is a warning of how persecutions and discriminations c...
Punti chiave
What to do if you are a cross-border worker 1. Financial documentation: Ensure you have adequate financial documentation for the renewal of your residence permit. This includes income statements, employment contracts, and proof of residence. For example, a cross-border worker employed in Lugano must submit both Swiss and Italian income statements, with a minimum annual income of approximately 35,000 CHF to avoid issues with the authorities. 2. Know the regulations: Inform yourself about the current regulations in both Switzerland and Italy. For example, as of January 1, 2023, cross-border workers employed in Ticino must pay taxes on their second home in Italy, with a rate ranging from 0.76% to 3.5% of the cadastral value. Additionally, it is important to know that cross-border workers residing in Italy can benefit from a tax concession in Switzerland, but only if their annual income does not exceed 120,000 CHF. 3. Consult experts: Seek advice from specialized consultants to avoid legal issues. For example, a tax consultant can help optimize taxes and avoid double taxation. In towns like Mendrisio or Chiasso, there are several consulting firms that offer specific services for cross-border workers. 4. Use online tools: Use tools such as the salary calculator to have a clear view of your finances. For example, a cross-border worker earning 6,000 CHF per month can easily calculate taxes and deductions using these tools. ### Useful tools - Salary calculator - Guide to permits - Salary comparison ### Operational checklist - Required documents: Employment contract, income statement, proof of residence. - Tax regulations: Know the tax rates in Switzerland and Italy. - Specialist advice: Consult a tax consultant to optimize taxes. - Online tools: Use salary calculators and...