About Gustav Klimt’s Paintings

When it comes to painters outside the Renaissance; a few would enter the minds of many; as identifying their favourite “picks” really depends on the kind of period and movement you’re looking for. If you’re one of those who want to look into the beginnings of modern art; then perhaps the most famous Gustav Klimt paintings in the world ought to be your first look.

 

The Gustav Klimt painting website recalls the artist as one of the most prominent figures involved in the Vienna Art Nouveau movement. The painter, an icon of Austrian symbolism, worked on sketches, murals, paintings, and other media depicting the female body, which critics saw as his primary subject. Some of these artworks include Klimt’s most famous paintings, which have garnered fame in the art community to merit their quality reproductions from various groups. For instance, 1st Art Gallery Klimt paintings include some of the artist’s famous work. Some of the most famous Klimt paintings include:

 

● The Kiss (1908) is perhaps the most iconic of all Gustav Klimt paintings.

stunning art critics during its first unveiling at the Österreichische Galerie Belvedere. The artwork depicts a couple embracing one another on the edge of a meadow or flower field. 

● The Virgin (1913) is perhaps one of Gustav Klimt’s most debated paintings, as the oil on canvas depicts six nude women surrounding what appears to be a virgin. Its most prevalent interpretation is that it depicts the “transformation” into womanhood, although Klimt himself hadn’t made any clarifications.

● The Three Ages of Woman (1905) is a similar painting to The Virgin, albeit much “clearer” for critics. The oil painting shows three women in separate “stages” of womanhood, that of an old woman, a young adult; and a child.

 

● Danae (1907) is an oil painting that depicts the Greek mythological character of the same name, known to be the daughter of King Acrisius of Argos.

She was locked up by her father. This is after the Oracle of Delphi told the King that Danae’s son is destined to kill her. Unbeknownst to the king; his daughter will not be claimed by a mortal man but rather by Zeus, King of the Gods himself; who visited her as golden rain.

● Hope II (1908) is an oil painting showing a pregnant woman with quite an elaborate shawl looking down upon her belly; which featured a human skull. It’s often depicted that the woman is either praying for her child or is worried about an impending threat. Words such as “prayer” and “threat” were prominent in descriptions given that three other women are shown below the subject; heads bent down and hands together as if in prayer. 

Conclusion

The paintings above surely don’t define Gustav Klimt as an artist by themselves; as Klimt has much more to offer with his signature style with other pieces in different media. However, Klimt’s style shines as an oil painter courtesy of his strong display of colours. Frank eroticism, is a style he will always be known for.

Adam Cross

Adam Cross is a writer contributing works to 1st Art Gallery. His attention to detail extends to things he writes; as he knows he has a responsibility to his readers as a writer to express his ideas clearly and concisely. He’s currently trying his hand at oil painting, an activity he’s currently enjoying.