According to a statement, the painting, which is valued at an estimated 14 million euros (16 million dollars), was handed over on Tuesday in the city’s Museum Kunstpalast.

The return was the result of a months-long legal tug-of-war, after the city council had given its approval at the end of April 2021.

The Marc painting had come to Düsseldorf in 1962 as a donation from Switzerland. The expressionist masterpiece was considered one of the most important works on display at the Kunstpalast.

In November 2021, the City of Düsseldorf and the community of heirs had agreed on a restitution agreement for the painting to the heirs of Kurt Grawi (1887-1944), who was persecuted by the Nazis.

The restitution was delayed, first because of a criminal complaint and then because of a legal probe by city authorities. The entitled heiress in the case is 92 years old.

In September, the World Jewish Congress intervened in the dispute and threatened the city of Düsseldorf with legal action because of the delays.

“With the return of the painting to Kurt Grawi’s heirs, one of the most important decisions of the term so far is now being carried out,” said Mayor Stephan Keller, according to a statement.

“In the course of the discussions, I have always emphasized that the state capital Düsseldorf is aware of its historical responsibility.”