Case #1594.0

Struggle over Monet's Field of Poppies, Near Giverny: Who should benefit?

Publication Date: November 01, 1999
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Abstract:
On August 19, 1999, lawyers representing Boston's Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) and attorneys for The White Fund of Lawrence, Massachusetts were in Suffolk Superior Court to plead their case in a legal battle that had begun earlier that year. At issue was the fate of $8 million worth of fine paintings bequeathed to The White Fund Trust by Reverend William E. Wolcott in his last will and testament. Although The White Fund owned and ostensibly controlled the collection, the paintings had been in the custody of the MFA for over 80 years. At the heart of the legal struggle was essentially the question of how best to interpret and serve the wishes of a benefactor, and in this case, to determine who should benefit: the people of Lawrence or the greater public via the MFA. In the end, the judge would decide which side's argument had greater merit.

Other Details

Teaching Plan:
Available with Educator Access
Case Author:
Erin Lehman
Faculty Lead:
Christine Letts
Pages (incl. exhibits):
17
Setting:
United States
Language:
English