Gustav Klimt

Gustav Klimt (1862-1918) Klimt was a prominent member of an innovating group of artists called 'Sezession' and is considered to be one of the main pioneers of modern art. Apart from this, his ornamental Jugendstil style evokes an irresistible feeling which is inspired by de 'fin-de-siecle' of 19th century Vienna: elitist, liberal-middle class, decadent, pleasantly-decorative. His work is extremely recognizable due to his monumental style combined with Byzantine-like ornamental art and classical symbolism, created against the background of romanticism which was so characteristic of his time.