A Shocking Lawsuit Reveals Unethical Behavior from High-Powered Art Advisor
An explosive lawsuit has been filed against Barbara Guggenheim, a high-powered art advisor who has worked with celebrities such as Tom Cruise and Sylvester Stallone. The lawsuit alleges that Guggenheim engaged in unethical and abusive behavior, including sleeping with clients and dealers, receiving kickbacks, and pressuring her former partner to engage in inappropriate activities to close deals.
Barbara Guggenheim, 78, who is not related to the famous museum family, allegedly encouraged her employee Abigail Asher to dress provocatively and engage in inappropriate behavior with clients. Asher, 61, claims that she was exploited, controlled, and threatened by Guggenheim for nearly 40 years before they decided to part ways in 2023.
According to court documents, Guggenheim falsely accused Asher of embezzling more than $20 million from their company after their split. Asher also alleges that Guggenheim engaged in inappropriate relationships with clients and mishandled company finances.
Asher stated in the lawsuit that Guggenheim’s actions were a violation of the trust placed in art advisors with fiduciary duties to their clients. The lawsuit also highlights Guggenheim’s extravagant expenses charged to their company, including personal items and lavish trips.
Despite the allegations, Guggenheim’s attorney has dismissed the claims as “libelous nonsense.” The lawsuit sheds light on a tumultuous partnership that lasted nearly four decades, culminating in legal battles over financial discrepancies and unethical behavior.
The lawsuit exposes a dark side of the art world and raises questions about the ethical standards within the industry. As the legal battle unfolds, both parties are seeking damages, with Guggenheim pursuing over $20 million in restitution.