It’s likely the most famous Klimt painting.
His distinctive style is particularly apparent inThe Kiss,which was painted during his luminous Golden Period.
Works produced during this golden phase feature pronounced planes and delicate, decorative forms made of gold leaf.
Gustav Klimt, “The Kiss,” oil and gold leaf on canvas, 1907–1908 (Photo: Belvedere viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
As she wraps her arms around her partner’s neck, her eyes are peacefully closed.
Her facial expression emphasizes the tranquility and intimacy of the scene and gives her a sense of transcendence.
Klimt often explored this theme of love in his work.
Photograph of Gustav Klimt, 1914 (Photo: Josef Anton Trčka viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
In this depiction, a sleeping mother and father hug their child.
LikeThe Kiss, the scene offers a quiet glimpse into an intimate relationship.
These include the presence of contrasting patterns, a bright color scheme, and fine lines.
Gustav Klimt, “Portrait of Adele Block-Bauer I,” 1907 (Photo: Neue Galerie New York viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
This approach materialized mostly aspatterns, which have a strong presence inThe Kiss.
This is particularly apparent in the stylized flowers that adorn the scene.
The artist’sskilled draughtsmanshipis especially evident in his rendering of the female subject.
Gustav Klimt, “Judith and the Head of Holofernes,” 1901 (Photo: Belvedere viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
I can paint and draw, he explained.
I believe this myself and a few other people say that they believe this too.
But I’m notcertainof whether it’s true.
Gustav Klimt, “Water Serpants I,” 1904–1907 (Photo: Belvedere viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Given the everlasting influence and enduring admiration ofThe Kiss, however, there’s little room for doubt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who paintedThe Kiss?
Austrian artist Gustav Klimt paintedThe Kissbetween 1907 and 1908.
Gustav Klimt, “Tree of Life,” 1905–1909 (Photo: MAK – Museum of Applied Arts viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Where isThe Kisspainting?
Gustav Klimt’sThe Kissis located on the upper level of the Belvedere Museum in Vienna, Austria.
What is the meaning behindThe Kissby Gustav Klimt?
Gustav Klimt, “Love,” 1895 (Photo: Vienna Museum viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Detail of “The Kiss”
Detail of “The Kiss”
Detail of “The Kiss”
