Artnet News has published a list of the top 10 German art collectors, coinciding with the opening of Art Cologne 2015. The list includes notable figures such as Frieder Burda, who opened his own museum in Baden-Baden; Nicolas Berggruen, the "homeless billionaire" who favors contemporary American and German artists; Christian and Karen Boros, who display their collection in a repurposed Berlin bunker; industrialist Reinhold Würth, whose collection spans from Renaissance to contemporary; former dealer Désiré Feuerle, known for his eclectic mix of Khmer sculpture and contemporary art; and Hasso Plattner, co-founder of SAP and a major collector of Impressionist and modern works.
The list highlights Germany's position as a powerhouse in the global art market, driven by its strong economy and a tradition of serious art patronage. By profiling these collectors, the article underscores the diversity of collecting strategies—from museum-building to bunker exhibitions—and the significant influence German collectors have on the international art scene, particularly in supporting both historical and contemporary artists.