Paul is a highly experienced, creative and tenacious litigator
paul.russell@russell.nl +31 20 301 55 55Paul W.L. Russell, LL.M., specialist in Art & Law, pursued in the programme “Spitsuur” by BNR News Radio the question where the Crimea art treasures should be returned to – Ukraine or Russia?
On 6 October 2016, there was an important hearing in the court case on the Crimea art treasures. After the exhibition “The Crimea: Gold and Secrets of the Black Sea” at the Allard Pierson Museum in Amsterdam a dispute arose on which State the artefacts should be returned to – Ukraine or Russia? Paul W.L. Russell, specialist in Art & Law, discussed in the programme “Spitsuur” by BNR News Radio the importance of loan agreements, guarantees by the Dutch State, and international conventions to answer this question.
Listen to the broadcast here: (in Dutch)
Russell Advocaten has been leader in the field of art and law for many years. The international aspects of art matters form an integral part of our practice.
On 16 July, the Amsterdam Court of Appeal rendered an interlocutory judgement in the matter of the Crimean gold. What does the judgement mean and what consequences does it have for the further handling of this politically highly sensitive issue?
Why is the District Court of the opinion that the artefacts held by the Allard Pierson museum must be handed over to Ukraine? Does this mean the Crimea museums will definitely not get the works of art?
As of 1 January 2026, the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (Prevention) Act (Wwft) will change. Cash payments of EUR 3,000 or more will then be prohibited. What does this mean for the retail sector and the art trade?
Since 28 June 2025, a new EU regulation requires anyone wishing to import cultural goods into the EU to have an import licence or submit an importer’s declaration. When is which type of document required? How does it affect art dealers, galleries, auction houses and collectors, both inside and outside the EU?
Employees who consume alcohol and drugs during work or who want to work under the influence remain a problem for employers. What measures can you take against this? Are you allowed to test an employee if you suspect they are under the influence?
Stolen cultural objects must be returned to the country of origin. What are your rights and duties if you have bought art in good faith that is claimed to have been stolen?
