Amsterdam Museum pays 200,000 euros for Thérèse Schwartze painting that sold for 47,250 dollars three years ago: 'Of course that's a pity'

The Amsterdam Museum has acquired a significant 1889 painting by Thérèse Schwartze titled Musicerende Amsterdamse Burgerweesmeisjes for 200,000 euros. The artwork, which depicts seven girls from the historic Amsterdam Burgerweeshuis, was purchased from a New York-based art dealer at the PAN art fair. The acquisition has sparked debate because the painting sold at a United States auction for approximately 47,250 dollars less than three years ago. Critics, including art dealer Edwin van Drecht, argue that the museum missed an earlier opportunity to purchase the piece at a much lower price.

Museum curator Tom van der Molen defended the purchase, noting that the institution did attempt to bid during the 2023 auction but was outbid and lacked time to secure additional funding. He emphasized that the current price reflects not only market appreciation but also the costs associated with international shipping, insurance, and professional restoration conducted since the auction. Van der Molen stated that the museum could only commit to the purchase now that it has been able to thoroughly examine the painting's condition in person.