Sonja Knips
1897-1898
Gustav Klimt captured his wealthy friend and patron Sonja Knips in this dreamy, early masterpiece, marking his first major society portrait. She floats in a cloud of fluffy, pale pink fabric, clutching a tiny red book that hints at her intellectual side. Painted just before his famous "Golden Phase," the soft, feathery brushstrokes show a young Klimt breaking away from strict academic rules to find his unique voice. Sonja actually bought the portrait while he was still painting it, proving she was a true fan from the very start!
Location: Belvedere Museum, Vienna
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