What You See
A woman glances over her shoulder with a direct, confident gaze. Rosy cheeks, a red-lipped smile, a small beauty mark — her face framed by dark hair against a vivid emerald background. Her colorful shawl — pinks, oranges, blues — contrasts boldly with the flat green. The brushwork is hurried, almost raw. X-rays revealed another portrait beneath: a young woman in a hat, painted over by Klimt himself.
Context
Painted 1916–1917, late in Klimt's career. This shows him moving beyond his "Golden Phase" toward a more emotional, Expressionist style: vivid colors, bold strokes, psychological intensity. The painting belongs to the Galleria Ricci Oddi in Piacenza, Italy.
Story
In 1997, the painting was stolen from the gallery, removed from its frame in broad daylight. It remained missing for 22 years, one of the art world's most wanted works. Then in 2019, gardeners clearing ivy from the museum's exterior wall found a hidden panel. Inside, wrapped in a garbage bag: Klimt's portrait, undamaged. It had been hidden in the same building the entire time.
For Your Space
The emerald green makes a statement. Pair with neutral walls or lean into jewel tones. The portrait orientation suits narrow walls or flanking positions. A conversation piece with a story to tell.