Book dossier

Gustav Klimt

by Alessandra Comini

The alluring imagery of Gustav Klimt (1862-1918) has fascinated art lovers for decades. His decorative colors and vibrant, sinuous line seduce the eye and mind. His landscapes are studded with opulent symbols of regeneration. In an age of lingering Victorian repression, his imposing women delivered a message of sexual urgency. Klimt's role in the development of 20th century art is just being realized. Dr. Comini treats his work in a new manner; she discusses the "reverse" parallel between Freud's insight into the content of dream symbols and Klimt's obscuring of manifest content through symbolic details. Her text brings a startling new dimension to the compelling art of a very private man. -- from back cover.