Gustav Klimt Painting 'Fräulein Lieser' to Be Auctioned After Nearly a Century

A long-lost painting by acclaimed Austrian artist Gustav Klimt will go up for auction on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. The 1917 work, titled 'Fräulein Lieser', is considered one of Klimt's last major female portraits and an important example of Austrian modernist art.

The painting, which depicts a young woman in a boldly patterned dress, was believed to have been lost for nearly 100 years. However, it has recently come to light that the artwork has been secretly owned by a private Austrian family for decades.

In advance of the auction, the New Galerie in New York is displaying a sketch of 'Fräulein Lieser' to give the public a preview of this rediscovered masterpiece. The sketch provides insight into Klimt's creative process and the evolution of the final painting.

Why this matters: The resurfacing of 'Fräulein Lieser' is a significant event in the art community, as it adds to the body of work of one of the most celebrated artists of the early 20th century. The auction of this rare Klimt painting is expected to attract considerable attention from collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide.

Gustav Klimt, known for his distinctive style and use of gold leaf in his paintings, is widely regarded as a trailblazer of modern art in Austria. His works, including the famous portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer, have fetched record prices at auction in recent years. The upcoming sale of 'Fräulein Lieser' marks a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire a previously unknown work by the artist, which has been hidden from public view for nearly a century.

Key Takeaways

• Long-lost Klimt painting 'Fräulein Lieser' to be auctioned in 2024.
• Painting depicts a young woman in a boldly patterned dress.
• Artwork has been privately owned for decades, now publicly displayed.
• Klimt's work is highly valued, with his paintings fetching record prices.
• Auction of 'Fräulein Lieser' is a significant event in the art world.