4.9/5
Ferdinand Bloch-Bauer and the Golden Gown of 1907
Gustav Klimt began a magnificent transformation when he painted a wealthy Viennese patron. Ferdinand Bloch-Bauer commissioned the piece, and Gustav Klimt spent three years working on it before completing it in 1907. [1] A journey to study Byzantine mosaics in Ravenna inspired this gold style. [2]
To create this shimmering masterpiece, Gustav Klimt used gold and silver leaf. [3] He also built up raised relief patterns using gesso, a plaster-like material. [3] This gave the final canvas a unique, physical texture. These golden surfaces reflect light across the room and change as you walk by them.
The Byzantine Inspiration of Ravenna on Klimt's Canvas
The portrait shows Adele Bloch-Bauer sitting in a decorative chair, though her golden gown almost hides it. She looks directly at you with dark hair styled high and bright red lips. Her pale skin and her clasped hands stand out against the flat, golden background.
Her hands are clasped in a precise way to hide a disfigured finger. [2] Her elaborate gown features eye motifs and triangles, while her cloak contains raised initials AB in low relief. [2] Nazi commander Hermann Göring later acquired the jewelled choker depicted in the portrait and gifted it to his wife, Emmy. [3]
The background is split vertically. On the left, two silver squares sit on a textured gold field. A tiny black-and-white checkerboard band separates the gold from a green block in the corner. In the opposite corner, the signature 'GUSTAV KLIMT 1907' is painted.
Finding the Right Scale for Your Klimt Reproduction on Your Wall
If you want to bring this warmth into your home, a hand-painted portrait of adele bloch-bauer i reproduction is a beautiful option. This piece stands out in our curated guide to history's greatest masterworks. Our artists recreate it brushstroke-by-brushstroke using oil on canvas. It is part of our wider Art Nouveau Modern creations collection.
In our oil paintings of Gustav Klimt collection, we offer seven listed sizes starting at $249.95. For the exact square shape of the original, visit our custom canvas commission page. You might also pair this with The Kiss or Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer II to complete your golden display.
