Gustav Klimt revolutionized modern art with his use of gold leaf in his sinuous and erotic depictions of women in the early 20th century. His iconic masterpiece, “The Kiss”, marked the peak of his celebrated “Golden Phase”. Despite this, the golden-laced works represent just a small portion of his vast repertoire, showcasing his rebellious spirit against traditional styles. Klimt’s inspiration for using gold stemmed from his family’s goldsmithing background. His exploration of gold not only added beauty but also symbolism to his paintings, creating a sense of timelessness and infinity. Klimt’s controversial yet innovative approach to art continues to captivate audiences today.
https://news.artnet.com/art-world-archives/gustav-klimt-gold-2543498