Today, the Auktionshaus im Kinsky in Vienna is hosting the sale of Gustav Klimt's long-lost masterpiece, 'Bildnis Fräulein Lieser' or 'Portrait of Miss Lieser.' The painting, with a house estimate of $30 million to $50 million, is a significant event not only for art enthusiasts but also for those interested in the life of this renowned artist.
Commissioned by the prominent Lieser family in Vienna, the painting was left unfinished and unsigned by Klimt upon his sudden death in 1918. It remained in the possession of the Liesers, escaping confiscation by the Nazis during the tumultuous period of 1939-1945. The painting resurfaced in 1960 in the hands of another Viennese family, where it remained largely unnoticed until now.
Gustav Klimt, known for his bohemian lifestyle and groundbreaking artistic contributions, was a central figure in Vienna's cultural scene at the turn of the 20th century. Despite his unconventional personal life, Klimt's reputation as a founding member of the Vienna Secession movement and his artistic prowess were widely recognized.
The portrait of Fräulein Lieser, believed to be one of the daughters of the Lieser family, represents a late-period masterpiece of Klimt's work. With the Austrian government allowing the painting to be sold to an international buyer, its value and potential price at the auction are expected to soar.
Notably, Klimt's legacy includes a debated number of children from various relationships, adding intrigue to his already colorful persona. The unveiling of 'Bildnis Fräulein Lieser' has sparked excitement in the art world, offering a rare glimpse into the artist's lesser-known creations.
As the auction unfolds, art enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the outcome, with expectations that the portrait of Miss Lieser will fetch a price surpassing its estimated value, further solidifying Klimt's enduring influence on the art market.
