Original 1931 collotype created from a detail of Jurisprudence (oil on canvas, 1903-07). Published by Max Eisler and printed by Österreichischer Staatsdruckerei (Austrian State Printing Office), Vienna, in an edition of 500. Paper measures 17 7/8 x 17 15/16 inches.
In 1931, Max Eisler published the most notable posthumous collection of Gustav Klimt works to date. Using a complex gravure process, Klimt’s original oil paintings were painstakingly reproduced as collotype prints on Chine-collé, a thin, tissue-like paper which was bonded to a heavier cream wove backing paper during the striking of the image. The use of Chine-collé ensured outstanding resolution in the print, which is especially noticeable in the finer details of the facial features and in Klimt’s symbols. This detail from Klimt’s Jurisprudence is a world-class example of collotype, capturing the superb resolution of the original oil painting, which was presumed destroyed by fire along with Klimt’s two other University of Vienna Ceiling Paintings on May 8, 1945- the final day of World War II. This artwork arrives accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.
Century Guild has curated collections of Gustav Klimt’s printed works on paper for over twenty years. Please contact us directly if you’d like to learn more about this artwork.