Melani Schiele (unica opera autorizzata dagli eredi) (1990) Printmaking by Egon Schiele

Egon Schiele (1890–1918) was an Austrian painter and a key figure in the early 20th-century expressionist movement. Born on June 12, 1890, in Tulln, Austria, he displayed artistic talent from a young age, prompting his enrollment at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna at just 16 years old. There, he studied under notable artists, including the influential painter Gustav Klimt, who became a mentor and played a significant role in Schiele's development.

Schiele’s work is characterized by its raw emotional intensity, bold colors, and provocative subject matter. He often explored themes of sexuality, identity, and the human form, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. His distinctive style combined distorted figures, expressive lines, and an unusual use of color, which set him apart from his contemporaries.

In 1909, Schiele's career began to gain traction when he held his first solo exhibition in Vienna. However, his explicit depictions of nudity and sexuality frequently drew criticism and controversy, leading to legal troubles. In 1912, he was arrested for allegedly seducing a young girl and exhibiting indecent art, experiences that further fueled his rebellious and defiant spirit.

Throughout his career, Schiele produced a prolific body of work, including over 300 paintings, numerous drawings, and sketches. His self-portraits, in particular, are renowned for their introspective and often unsettling quality, reflecting his inner turmoil and complex psyche. Notable works include Self-Portrait with Physalis and The Embrace, showcasing his unique approach to human anatomy and emotion.

Tragically, Schiele's life was cut short by the influenza pandemic in 1918. He died on October 31, just days after the death of his wife, Edith. Despite his brief career, Schiele left a lasting impact on modern art, influencing later movements such as Expressionism and Surrealism. Today, he is celebrated as one of the most significant artists of the early 20th century, with his works held in major collections worldwide, including the Leopold Museum in Vienna and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

• Nationality: AUSTRIA
• Date of birth : 1890
• Artistic domains: Represented by a Gallery,
• Groups: Artists presented by a gallery

The Artist was highlighted in an article in ArtMajeur Magazine:

Egon Schiele Works Are Returned to the Heirs of a Jewish Art Collector Following a New York Investigation