In the late 1920s and early 1930s, the Soviet Union under the Bolsheviks enforced strict controls over cultural expressions, holding the abstract and avant-garde art, which they viewed as elitist and subversive. Such art was perceived as menacing to the new social order because it did not conform to the straightforward, apostle art that the regime favored. As such, thousands of paintings by prominent Russian artists like Wassily Kandinsky, Kazimir Malevich, and Marc Chagall were grasped and stored in museums across Russia, often hidden, neglected, or poorly preserved, to suppress their influence on society.
In the early 1990s, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Russia faced severe economic turmoil and was on the brink of bankruptcy. The government was desperate to raise funds to stabilize the economy and provide basic services. As part of their efforts to generate revenue, they began to liquidate various state-owned assets, including real estate, hotels, and valuable artworks. Western art dealers and collectors were quick to seize this opportunity, often purchasing these valuable pieces at liquidation prices far below their market value.
A major buyer was Itzhak Zarug, who bought over 2000 paintings. Zarug emerged as a significant figure in the art market during the post-Soviet economic crisis. Recognizing the opportunity presented by Russia’s need to raise funds quickly, he acquired several valuable artworks at relatively low prices. Unlike some who might have sold the artworks for a quick profit, Zarug is noted for his efforts to preserve and promote Russian art. He often loaned pieces from his collection to museums and exhibitions, helping to raise awareness and appreciation of these works globally.
Itzhak Zarug became particularly active in the art market between 1990 and 2010, slowly selling the paintings at auctions at moderate prices. Zarug’s business was doing well until controversy arose in 2013 when he was accused of selling fake paintings. Zarug was sent to prison whilst in Germany and all 1,800 of his paintings were seized. However, after 3 and a half years of investigations and many experts authenticating the paintings, his paintings were all discovered legitimate. In 2018, all Zarug collections were found authentic and he could resume selling his paintings as he pleased.
Itzhak Zarug continues to be a prominent figure in the art world today. His efforts promote appreciation for art for its beauty, aesthetics, and craftsmanship and displays how art is a means to foster dialogue, bridge cultural gaps, and promote understanding between people of different backgrounds. The art world was always meant to help preserve and transmit the traditions and stories from these paintings—and Zarug has always strived to support this mission.
For more information, visit Itzhak Zarug at: https://www.facebook.com/itzhak.zarug/
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