Gustav Klimt

Date of Birth: July 14, 1862

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: February 6, 1918

Biography

Gustav Klimt was born on July 14, 1862, in Baumgarten, near Vienna, Austria. He is renowned as one of the most prominent members of the Vienna Secession movement, a group of artists who sought to break away from the traditional styles of the 19th century. Klimt’s work is characterized by his use of symbolism, eroticism, and his fascination with the female form. His most famous works include “The Kiss,” “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I,” and “The Tree of Life.” Klimt’s father was a gold engraver, and his mother aspired to be a musical performer. This artistic environment greatly influenced his early interest in the arts. Klimt attended the Vienna School of Arts and Crafts, where he studied architectural painting. He initially gained recognition for his murals and ceilings in public buildings. As his style evolved, he became known for his “Golden Phase,” where he incorporated gold leaf into his paintings, creating some of his most iconic and luxurious pieces. Despite facing criticism and controversy for the erotic nature of his work, Klimt remained a significant figure in the art world until his death on February 6, 1918, in Vienna, Austria.

5 Interesting Facts about Gustav Klimt

1. Gustav Klimt co-founded the Vienna Secession, an influential group of artists who sought to challenge the traditional art norms of the time.

2. His work “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I” was sold for $135 million in 2006, making it one of the most expensive paintings ever sold.

3. Klimt was known for his love of cats and often painted with them around.

4. He never married but had numerous relationships, and it is believed he fathered at least 14 children.

5. Klimt’s works were often controversial due to their erotic content, leading to public outcry and censorship.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Gustav Klimt

1. “Whoever wants to know something about me as an artist, which alone is significant, they should look attentively at my pictures and there seek to recognize what I am and what I want.”

2. “Art is a line around your thoughts.”

3. “All art is erotic.”

4. “There is always hope, as long as the canvases are empty.”

5. “I am not interested in myself as a ‘subject for painting,’ but in others, particularly women, above all else.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Gustav Klimt’s highest estimated net worth during his lifetime would be difficult to quantify in modern terms, but his works have sold for hundreds of millions of dollars posthumously. Adjusted for inflation, his net worth today could be estimated in the range of tens of millions.