Gustav Klimt (1862-1918) 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 the
'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. In Sezession's own words: "Art
guides us to an ideal realm, the only place where we will be able to
find pure joy, pure happiness and pure love. A choir of angels from
paradise. Joy given by divine sparkles. That kiss from the entire
world!"
