"Gustav Klimt the painter has always tended to overshadow Gustav Klimt the draughtsman. One of the most fascinating representatives of the Belle Epoque, Klimt is cherished for his rich use of ornament and his paintings of fin de siecle Viennese high society, which bring to life the decadence of the era through vibrant colours and patterns. Yet there can be no doubt about Klimt's greatness as a draughtsman." "Here, Rainer Metzger brings together hundreds of Klimt's works on paper in a way that enriches our knowledge of the artist and enhances the visual impact of his oeuvre. Many revolve around Klimt's taboo-breaking main themes - the naked woman, erotica and homoerotica - while others provide allegorical and historical insights. Between these two poles lie Klimt's elegantly direct and intoxicating preparatory sketches and studies tirelessly and manically executed - frameworks that would lay the foundations for his paintings."--Jacket.
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