Gustav Klimt

Gustav Klimt was born to Ernst Klimt the Elder and Anna Klimt. His father was a gold engraver, and the family struggled financially. Gustav was the second of seven children.

Klimt enrolls at the Vienna School of Arts and Crafts (Kunstgewerbeschule) on a full scholarship. He studies under Professor Ferdinand Laufberger and focuses on architectural painting.

Klimt graduates from the Vienna School of Arts and Crafts and begins working as a freelance artist. He collaborates with his brother Ernst and their friend Franz Matsch on decorative murals and ceiling paintings.

Klimt and his team receive the Golden Order of Merit from Emperor Franz Joseph I for their contributions to the Burgtheater in Vienna, marking a significant recognition of his talent and work.

Gustav's father, Ernst Klimt the Elder, and his brother, Ernst Klimt, both pass away within a year. This personal tragedy deeply affects Gustav and influences his artistic direction.

Klimt, along with other prominent artists, founds the Vienna Secession, a group aiming to challenge the conservative art establishment and promote modern art. Klimt serves as the group's first president.

Klimt's painting 'Philosophy' is exhibited at the Paris World Fair, where it receives a gold medal. This international recognition solidifies his reputation as a leading artist of his time.

Klimt and a group of artists, disillusioned with the Secession's direction, resign and form a new group. This marks a significant shift in his artistic and professional life.

Klimt completes 'The Kiss,' one of his most famous works, which is exhibited at the Kunstschau exhibition in Vienna. The painting becomes an iconic representation of the Art Nouveau movement.

Klimt's painting 'Death and Life' wins the first prize at the International Art Exhibition in Rome. This accolade further cements his status as a leading figure in modern art.

Gustav Klimt dies from a stroke and pneumonia in Vienna. His death marks the end of a prolific and influential career in the art world, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire artists and art lovers.