The "golden kiss" refers to The Kiss, a famous painting by Gustav Klimt.
Gustav Klimt's The Kiss
The Kiss, is an iconic oil-on-canvas artwork created by the Austrian Symbolist painter Gustav Klimt. What distinguishes it is the addition of gold leaf, silver, and platinum. This use of precious metals gives the artwork a luxurious and shimmering quality, contributing to the "golden" association of the piece and it's period.
Key Features of The Kiss
Here's a breakdown of the painting:
- Medium: Oil paint, gold leaf, silver, and platinum on canvas.
- Artist: Gustav Klimt.
- Period: Created between 1907 and 1908, during Klimt's "Golden Period."
- Subject: It depicts a couple embracing, with their bodies partially obscured by ornate robes.
- Style: Symbolism, Art Nouveau.
The Significance of the "Golden Period"
Klimt's "Golden Period" marked a significant phase in his artistic development. This era is characterized by:
- Extensive use of gold leaf: Creating a glittering, opulent effect that became a signature of his work.
- Byzantine influences: Evident in the flat, decorative patterns and the use of gold.
- Focus on sensuality: Often depicting figures in intimate and symbolic scenes.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Title | The Kiss (Der Kuss) |
| Artist | Gustav Klimt |
| Materials | Oil on canvas, gold leaf, silver, platinum |
| Period | 1907-1908 (Golden Period) |
| Style | Symbolism, Art Nouveau |
| Subject | An embracing couple |
| Key Element | Use of gold leaf, giving a lustrous, golden appearance |
Therefore, the "golden kiss" is a reference to the radiant and distinctive look of Klimt's The Kiss due to its extensive use of gold leaf.
