Porträt einer Dame (1916–1917)
Created during the last years of Klimt's life, 'Porträt einer Dame' reflects his Expressionist tendencies while capturing the essence of a female figure with emotional depth. Initially painted over a lost work, the piece’s uniqueness is compounded by its tumultuous provenance, including a notable theft and subsequent recovery. At 60 by 55 centimeters, this oil on canvas displays Klimt’s talent for infusing symbolism and intimacy into his portraits.
1916 - 1917
About the Artwork
The story of 'Porträt einer Dame' is woven with romance and intrigue. Believed to depict a woman Klimt had a romantic relationship with, the original guise of the painting was lost soon after its creation in 1917 due to her untimely death. X-ray analysis revealed the haunting truth that Klimt painted over his original portrait to preserve his memory of her. The painting's narrative took a dramatic turn when it was stolen in 1997, leading to speculation about a cover-up involving a forgery. It was not until December 2019 that the original surfaced in a hidden recess of the gallery’s wall, revealing its harrowing yet captivating history.
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Did You Know
The portrait is believed to reflect a romance Klimt had with its original subject, which adds a layer of emotional depth to the painting, highlighting the artist’s personal connections to his work.
The original painting was not only lost but also replaced by a high-quality forgery, highlighting the complexities of art theft and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect or profit from valuable artworks.
After more than two decades of being hidden, ‘Porträt einer Dame’ was recovered from a wall recess, echoing the dramatic narratives often found in Klimt’s own symbolic and layered compositions.
