Mäda Primavesi (1912–1913)
Created between 1912 and 1913, Gustav Klimt's portrait 'Mäda Primavesi' captures the confident young daughter of the influential Otto Primavesi. At just nine years old, Mäda poses with an unconventional stance that conveys her strong character. Detail-rich, the artwork showcases Klimt's evolving style, featuring a floral pattern background and vibrant clothing that reflect both modernity and the influence of East Asian art. Currently, the portrait is housed in The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
1912 - 1913
About the Artwork
Gustav Klimt painted 'Mäda Primavesi' during a transformative period in his artistic career, shifting away from the golden ornamentation of his earlier masterpieces. Mäda, the daughter of a prominent businessman and art patron, stands confidently in the portrait that breaks from traditional child portraiture with her strong pose and modern gaze. The vibrant details, including the patterns inspired by Japanese art, further enrich the portrait, making it a spectacular representation of both the subject and the artist during the early 20th century. Klimt's relationship with the Primavesi family also highlights their significant role in supporting the Viennese art scene.
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Did You Know
The Primavesi family, known for their status and support of the arts, commissioned several works from Klimt, including portraits of both Mäda and her mother Eugenia, demonstrating the close ties between the artist and influential Viennese patrons.
Mäda stands in a unique, confident pose that was quite modern for childhood portraiture in the early 20th century, setting a precedent for how children were depicted in art and emphasizing personality over tradition.
During the creation of ‘Mäda Primavesi’, Klimt’s artistic style was notably influenced by Japanese prints and patterns, reflecting a growing fascination with Eastern aesthetics in European art, which is evident in the floral and decorative elements of the portrait.
