Rediscovered Klimt painting on display in Vienna
Vienna is not only the hometown of Gustav Klimt (1862-1918), but also the place where most of the world-famous Art Nouveau painter's works can still be visited today. The fact that another of Klimt's masterpieces is now on display is a real sensation. The Portrait of Fräulein Lieser was considered lost for around 100 years and was only known from a single black and white photograph. After decades in private Austrian ownership, the work was spectacularly auctioned off at the im Kinsky auction house in Vienna on April 24, 2024 for a total of 35 million euros.
Before the Portrait of Fräulein Lieser leaves Vienna, it can be visited free of charge on April 29 and 30 as well as May 2 and 3 without prior appointment at the im Kinsky (daily 10 am - 5 pm).
Since the painting unexpectedly reappeared at the end of January, there have been heated discussions about the portrayed young lady. Several daughters from the wealthy Viennese Lieser family are possible candidates. What is certain is that this is one of Gustav Klimt's last masterpieces. He began working on it in his studio in the district of Hietzing the year before his death. Like so many of Klimt's world-famous portraits of women, the painter chose bold colors and rich decorations. The painting remained unfinished to a small extent and without Klimt's signature. Portrait of Fräulein Lieser was sold on the basis of an agreement between the current owners and the legal successors of the Lieser family to a bidder from Hong Kong.
