What’s happening:
A century-long search came to a dramatic end as “Bildnis Fraeulein Lieser”, a lost portrait by Gustav Klimt, was unearthed in Vienna. Missing since 1925 and presumed destroyed, the artwork is set to be auctioned, stirring a wave of excitement amongst art aficionados.
Why it matters:
This discovery bridges a historical gap in the timeline of art plundered during an era when Jewish families faced persecution and loss of property. The painting, estimated at over $54 million, captures world attention not just for its monetary value, but as a symbol of restitution to families affected by Nazi art theft, despite uncertainty around this piece’s past ownership history.
The backdrop:
“Bildnis Fraeulein Lieser”, depicting the likeness of a respected Jewish matriarch from Austria, resurfaced after a century since it was last seen in public. The providence of this piece hints at its significance, emblematic of the Klimt tradition in Viennese Art Nouveau and enriching the collective understanding of Jewish cultural heritage prior to World War II.
The details:
The current owner, a private custodian since the 1960s, will offer the portrait for auction on April 24. Prior to the sale, the painting will tour internationally, allowing audiences in the UK, Switzerland, Germany, and Hong Kong a chance to behold this Klimt masterpiece restored from obscurity. The Lieser family, as the originary owners, retain legal rights through an international cultural heritage accord aimed at rectifying wartime cultural thefts.
Big picture:
Gustav Klimt, a pillar in the Secessionist movement, is known for his ornate and vivid portraits milling in sensuality and the exploration of femininity. Klimt’s influence resides across global fine art spheres, with his last portrait “Dame mit Fächer” fetching a staggering $108 million last year, evincing his enduring legacy and the high market demand for his works.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.