The kiss* by Gustav Klimt

A sacred sensuality and an absolute ornamental aesthetic rigor permeate this sumptuous figurative composition painted with incredible refinement. In the masterpiece named “The kiss”, the master of the Secession Gustav Klimt revisits the theme of sentimental fusion through a two-dimensional interpretation of extraordinary luxury. The canvas materializes a plastic research centered on the opposition of geometric and organic structures, erecting the union of bodies into an eternal golden monument.

The image offers a close-up framing of two lovers embraced in the heart of a protective golden structure adorned with complex spirals and volutes. The man tilts his face in profile to deposit a kiss on his companion’s cheek, his head crowned with dark green ivy leaves. The young woman, with regular features and translucent skin, keeps her eyes closed in an expression of complete romantic abandonment. Her fitted golden dress features large red, white, and blue concentric circles that contrast with the rigid rectangles of the male cloak. At their feet, the grassy ground is scattered with red poppies and small yellow flowers, enhanced by vertical gold ribbons.

The artist’s artisanal excellence resplends in the flawless treatment of the smooth complexion and the metallic shimmer of the gold leaf. His rigorous oil technique confers an exceptional tactile realism to the grain of the skin and a unique modern flatness to the Byzantine decors. This technical virtuosity confirms the perfection of his expertise.