Gustav Klimt Poster - The Kiss

Gustav Klimt's "The Kiss," painted between 1907-1908, stands as a pivotal artwork of the early 20th century, embodying the height of his Golden Phase. Characterized by the extensive use of gold leaf, this phase was heavily inspired by Byzantine art, which Klimt encountered during his travels.

"The Kiss" is a testament to Klimt's masterful blending of different art styles. The foundation of the painting is rooted in the Art Nouveau movement, a style that celebrated the beauty of natural forms. But Klimt's unique twist is evident in his fusion of symbolic, erotic, and allegorical subjects.

The choice of gold is not merely decorative. Historically, gold has been associated with sacredness and spiritual transcendence. In Byzantine religious art, gold backgrounds were used to create a space that was different from our own – a heavenly realm. Klimt leverages this association, using gold to imbue the artwork with a sense of the ethereal. Against this gold background, two figures emerge in a tender embrace, their bodies entangled but their faces serene, lost in their world.

The technique employed in "The Kiss" showcases Klimt's attention to detail. The use of oils combined with the gold and silver leaf creates a texture that is both visually striking and symbolic. The patterns on the garments of the two figures further deepen the narrative. The male figure's robe is adorned with rectangular shapes, possibly symbolizing masculinity or stability. In contrast, the female's robe, covered in circular patterns, might be alluding to femininity, continuity, or the cyclical nature of life.

Color plays a significant role in this artwork. Beyond the dominant gold, there's an interplay of silvers, browns, and greens, each chosen with precision to depict the richness of the scene. The meadow of flowers upon which the couple is situated offers a splash of natural color, perhaps suggesting nature's approval of their union.

Historically, "The Kiss" was created during a period of significant change in Vienna. The city was a melting pot of ideas, with art, psychology, and politics often intertwining. The artwork, with its blend of the erotic and the divine, may have been Klimt's response to the changing societal norms of the time, challenging the traditional notions of love and passion.

Klimt’s “The Kiss” remains a globally celebrated piece. As a poster, it provides enthusiasts an opportunity to delve deeper into Klimt's world, exploring the techniques, colors, and history that make this work an enduring masterpiece in the annals of art history.


Museum-quality poster made on long-lasting semi-glossy (silk) paper.

- Paper-weight: 170 gsm / 65 lb.

- Shipped in sturdy packaging protecting the poster.

Frame not included.