Printing technique: Giclée print on heavy museum art paper
Printing company: Wiener Druckanstalt - Vienna printing company
Edited by: Klimt Villa Vienna, embossed “Klimt Villa Vienna” (last studio of Gustav Klimt, Vienna)

This Giclée print, after Gustav Klimt's Portrait of Gertrude Flöge, captures a sketch that represents Klimt's profound connection to both the subject and his stylistic evolution. Gertrude Flöge was the sister of Emilie Flöge, Klimt's lifelong companion and muse, and their close relationship provided the artist with intimate insight into the character and presence of the women he portrayed.

In this drawing, Klimt's line work is both expressive and delicate, suggesting a deep understanding of his subject's inner world. The sketch shows the young girl with an air of quiet composure, highlighted by her soft, direct gaze and slightly parted lips. Her hairstyle and attire are indicative of Klimt's era, reflecting the aesthetic sensibilities of the early 20th century. The ruffled collar, captured in sweeping, flowing lines, evokes both movement and texture, demonstrating Klimt’s ability to portray fabric with a few elegant strokes.

Klimt was known for his minimalistic approach in his drawings, often relying on the power of line to convey both form and emotion. In this sketch, the simplicity of the composition allows the viewer to focus on Gertrude’s face, her innocence, and the subtle details that reveal her character. The use of white highlights adds depth and definition to her clothing, contrasting with the delicacy of her features.

The drawing also shows Klimt’s inclination to blur the lines between realism and abstraction. While Gertrude’s face is carefully detailed, her attire is rendered in a much looser style, suggesting Klimt's interest in capturing not just physical likeness but also the essence or spirit of the subject. This balance between realism and expression is a hallmark of Klimt’s portraiture, reflecting his ability to convey the inner life of his subjects through outward appearance.

As a Giclée print, this reproduction preserves the fine detail and texture of the original drawing, printed on heavy museum-quality paper. Produced by Klimt Villa Vienna, this print is embossed with the mark of Klimt’s last studio, adding a sense of historical and artistic authenticity to the work.

In this sketch, Klimt captures both the grace and personality of Gertrude Flöge, reflecting his deep sensitivity and mastery of portraiture. It stands as a testament to his ability to convey human emotion with a few carefully placed lines, blending elegance, simplicity, and depth.