Gustav Klimt

June 30, 2023

Gustav Klimt, the renowned Austrian artist, has made history with the sale of his last portrait at an auction in London.

Record-Breaking Price

Gustav Klimt’s final masterpiece, titled “Dame mit Fächer” or “Lady with a Fan,” fetched an astounding price of £85.3 million at the Sotheby’s auction. This sale has made it the most expensive artwork ever sold at a European auction, solidifying Klimt’s position as one of the most sought-after artists in the world.

Discovery in Vienna Studio

After Gustav Klimt’s passing in 1918, his last portrait was discovered on an easel in his Vienna studio. The artwork, depicting an unidentified woman in a kimono, showcases Klimt’s signature rich expressive style, which draws inspiration from Chinese motifs and Japanese woodblock patterns.

The Auction in London

The prestigious auction took place in London, attracting global attention and fierce bidding. After an intense ten-minute bidding war, the painting was finally sold to a collector based in Hong Kong, further emphasizing the international appeal and value of Klimt’s work.

Previous Record Holder

Before Klimt’s achievement, the title for the most expensive artwork sold at a European auction belonged to Alberto Giacometti. Giacometti’s 1961 bronze sculpture, “L’Homme Qui Marche I,” was sold for £65 million in 2010.

Gustav Klimt: A Decorative Painter of the 20th Century

Klimt is widely regarded as one of the greatest decorative painters of the 20th century. His notable works, such as “The Kiss,” depict the beauty and intricacy of human emotions and connections. As a pioneer of the Art Nouveau movement, Klimt co-founded the Vienna Secession in 1897, advocating for artists to break free from classical styles and rules.

The Golden Phase: A Legacy of Gold Leaf

During his Golden Phase, Klimt’s art flourished from the late 1890s to 1909. Inspired by Byzantine art, he incorporated gold leaf and ornamental detailing into his masterpieces. Works like “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I” and “Judith and the Head of Holofernes” exemplify this opulent style.

Influence on Artists

Gustav Klimt’s innovative techniques and artistic vision have had a profound influence on subsequent generations of artists. Notable figures such as Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka have been inspired by Klimt’s expressive style and his exploration of the female form.

Controversy at the University of Vienna

Klimt’s ceiling paintings at the University of Vienna sparked controversy due to their depiction of female nudes. The explicit portrayal of sensuous “femme fatales” led to accusations of obscenity. Consequently, Klimt chose to abstain from accepting further public commissions.

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