Look closely. The Zum Gedenken an Joh. Gottfried Arnhold Sculpture stands as a tribute to a family deeply woven into Dresden’s history. It is a story of banking, art, and resilience.
The Arnhold family, a German-Jewish family, played a vital role in Dresden’s economic and cultural life. This sculpture quietly commemorates their legacy. Their bank, Gebrüder Arnhold, became one of Germany’s leading private banks. Max Arnhold and his brother Georg steered the firm toward success. They invested in brewing, ceramics, electronics, and machinery.
Georg Arnhold even became chairman of the Dresden stock exchange. The family’s influence grew. They opened the Braubank in 1899. It supported Germany’s burgeoning brewing industry. By 1907, they had branches in Berlin and Dresden.
But the Arnhold family’s story took a dark turn. The rise of Nazism cast a shadow over their achievements. Initially, their wealth shielded them from antisemitism. However, Nazi officials soon launched an investigation into the bank’s financial practices. The Arnhold family’s reputation suffered. They lost customers and board positions.
In late 1935, the “Aryanization” of major banks began. Gebrüder Arnhold Bank was seized. The family faced increasing persecution. Heinrich Arnhold, Georg’s son, suffered strokes in 1934 and 1935. His death was later recognized as a result of Nazi persecution.
Lisa Arnhold, Heinrich’s wife, showed remarkable courage. She managed to save her family and their porcelain collection. With the help of her brother-in-law Kurt Arnhold, she moved them to Switzerland. Later, they emigrated to the USA via Portugal and Brazil.
Despite the challenges, the Arnhold family’s legacy endured. Their contributions to Dresden’s cultural and economic life remained significant. The Zum Gedenken an Joh. Gottfried Arnhold Sculpture symbolizes this resilience. It silently speaks of their impact on the city.
Heinrich Arnhold’s son, Henry H. Arnhold, escaped to the United States. He served in US Army intelligence during World War II. After the war, he joined the family’s New York-based bank. He became its non-executive chairman.
Since 2001, the Lisa and Heinrich Arnhold Lecture series has honored their memory. It is organized by Dresden Heritage e.V. and the American Academy in Berlin. The events take place twice a year. The Zum Gedenken an Joh. Gottfried Arnhold Sculpture serves as a reminder. It honors a family that contributed greatly to Dresden. Their story reflects both triumph and tragedy. It is a chapter in Dresden’s complex history.