The artwork entitled “Emilie Flöge, Aged 17” is a portrait created by the artist Gustav Klimt in the year 1891. Employing pastel on paper as the medium, this piece is illustrative of the Art Nouveau (Modern) art movement. Klimt, renowned for his distinctive style and strong figurative works, captures the essence of his subject in this genre of portraiture. Currently, this artwork is held in a private collection.
The portrait features a relatively demure palette, with a focus on soft colors and a subtle interplay of light and shadow which is characteristic of Klimt’s delicate approach to portraiture during this period. The subject, Emilie Flöge, is depicted in profile, showcasing her youthful features and serene expression. She is adorned with a delicate hair accessory that glistens slightly, contrasting with her dark hair and adding an element of texture and visual interest to the composition.
Klimt has masterfully rendered the textures of her clothing, with the white garment appearing almost ethereal due to his skilled use of light pastel tones. The artwork conveys an air of quiet elegance and poise, reflecting the artist’s ability to capture both the physical likeness and the nuanced character of his sitter. The simplicity of the background ensures that the viewer’s attention remains firmly on Flöge, emphasizing her presence and the careful detailing of her visage and attire in the artwork. Klimt’s signature can be seen at the bottom right corner, completing this exquisite piece of early Art Nouveau portraiture.