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This article deals with provenance research on artworks by Max Liebermann in a German auction house on the basis of practical experience. First, the particular problems of provenance research concerning artworks by Max Liebermann are outlined. The nature of his oeuvre, the painter's success in the Weimar Republic, and the social rooting of many Liebermann collectors in the progressive Jewish bourgeoisie are highlighted as causal factors. Second, on the basis of three concrete and current case studies, the particular difficulties, but also the possibilities of provenance research in the dynamic auction trade are demonstrated. A special feature is the necessity of a timely final decision in each individual research case. As an example, three paintings by Max Liebermann are presented which were auctioned in 2020 and 2021, following thorough research. Each of these artworks illustrates a very specific suspect situation, and also demonstrates individual ways to handle concerns up to the final decision in the art market.