Style and Period

'Love' is characterized by the Symbolism style, which was a dominant influence in Klimt's early works.

Composition and Symbolism

The painting depicts a complex scene that goes beyond a simple representation of love. At its center are two figures, often interpreted as a couple, but with the male figure appearing dangerous and ruthless, and the female figure seemingly surrendering to his embrace. Above them, Klimt painted three female heads representing the ages of a woman: youth, maturity, and old age. This element symbolizes the transience of life and the inevitability of aging and death.

Frame and Decoration

The painting is notable for its use of a wide, painted frame that takes up nearly half of the picture. This frame features naturalistic roses, which serve as a visual link between the realistic treatment of the figures and the flat color of the frame. The roses also add a romantic and symbolic layer to the work.

Artistic Technique

The artwork is executed in oil on canvas, measuring 60 x 44 cm. It is housed at the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, Austria.

Interpretation

The painting can be interpreted in several ways, including the transience of life against the backdrop of a passionate moment, and the idea of 'sweet death' in the name of love. The scene captures a moment where life flashes before one's eyes, symbolizing the intensity and fleeting nature of human passion.

Context in Klimt's Work

'Love' is part of Klimt's second portfolio for Gerlach's Allegories and Emblems and marks an early development in his use of allegorical and symbolic figures, a theme he would continue to explore in his subsequent works.