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The Kiss
The Kiss is one of Gustav Klimt's most famous works and the culmination of his Golden Phase, characterized by the use of gold and silver leaf. The painting depicts a couple embraced in an intimate hug, their bodies entwined in richly ornamented robes featuring motifs of the Art Nouveau style and organic forms. The man leans his head to kiss the woman's cheek, adorned with delicate flowers. The composition radiates love, passion, and sensuality and is an icon of the Viennese Secession.
Portrait of the Creator
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Artist
Gustav Klimt
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Date of birth and death
14 July 1862 – 6 February 1918
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Natinality
Austrian
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Style
Symbolism, Art Nouveau, Vienna Secession, Golden Phase with gold leaf techniques
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Significant works
The Kiss, Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I, Judith I, Danaë, Beethoven Frieze
Information about the work
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Year:
1907-1908
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Execution technique:
oil on canvas with the use of gold and silver
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Location:
Belvedere, Vienna, Austria
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Theme:
love, intimacy, sensuality, Secession, Golden Phase, eroticism
Internal Narrative and Creative Framework
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Inner Narrative
The painting symbolizes the universal idea of love and the unity of two human beings, combining modern aesthetics with traditional iconographies. The gold elements and patterns refer to Byzantine and Renaissance art, also indicating the timelessness of the theme of love. The figures lack complete facial features, emphasizing the universal character of the work.
The key to interpreting the work
The interpretation of the work should consider the context of the Secession period, Klimt's Golden Phase, and the symbolism of love and union. Attention should be paid to the influences of Byzantine and Japanese art, as well as the decorative nature of the composition.See other works by this artist
The Beethoven Frieze: The Longing for Happiness Finds Repose in Poetry. Right wall
- Artist: Gustav Klimt
- Year: 1902
University of Vienna Ceiling Paintings (Medicine), detail showing Hygieia
- Artist: Gustav Klimt
- Year: 1900-1907