Lost Carl Wagner paintings rediscovered in a German attic after a century
Two long-lost paintings by Carl Wagner have been rediscovered in an attic in Bad Liebenstein. The works, depicting scenes of Altenstein, were once part of the collection at Altenstein Palace before being sold off over a century ago. Efforts are now underway to restore and return them to public view. The paintings originally belonged to Altenstein Palace but were sold by Duke George II of Saxe-Meiningen. He considered them unfashionable at the time, leading to their removal from the collection. Decades later, they resurfaced in a forgotten attic.
The Altenstein Support Association stepped in to acquire the artworks, aiming to preserve them for future generations. Before they can be displayed, however, the paintings need professional restoration. Progress has been steady, thanks to financial support from donors.
The Rotary Club of Bad Salzungen contributed €1,000 to the restoration fund. Additional donations are still needed to complete the work. Once restored, the plan is to loan the paintings permanently to the Thuringian Palaces and Gardens Foundation. They will then be displayed at Altenstein Palace when it reopens to visitors. The rediscovery and restoration of these paintings bring a piece of local history back to life. With continued funding, they will soon be on show at Altenstein Palace. The project highlights the importance of community efforts in preserving cultural heritage.
