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Hans Makart

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Hans Makart was a prolific Austrian academic history painter, designer, and decorator.

He was a central figure in the visual arts of Austria-Hungary and Germany. His work was so influential that it defined the aesthetic of an entire era. This era became known as "Makartstil," or Makart style. He was often called the "magician of colors" due to his brilliant palette. Makart sought to create a "total work of art." This concept involves combining different art forms into one unified experience.

Modern Amoretti (Makart) right panel
Modern Amoretti (Makart) right panel

Makart's artistic process relied on a passionate and sensual love of color. He preferred bold, fluid shapes over strict, academic lines. To increase the visual impact of his pigments, he sometimes mixed asphalt into his paint. This technique enhanced the intensity of the colors but caused some deterioration over time. His paintings were usually large-scale and theatrical. They often featured historical motifs or allegorical subjects.

These works, such as *The Papal Election*, used color to convey intense drama. His style prioritized design and aesthetics above all other technical concerns.

Makart's career began with significant challenges. He was born in Salzburg in 1840 to a chamberlain at Mirabell Palace. He initially trained at the Vienna Academy between 1850 and 1851. However, his instructors judged him to be devoid of talent. They forced him to leave the Academy because he was a poor draughtsman. He moved to Munich for two years of independent study. Eventually, he came under the guidance of Karl Theodor von Piloty from 1861 to 1865. During this time, he traveled to London, Paris, and Rome to expand his knowledge.

His fame grew rapidly through several key works. *Lavoisier in Prison* was his first painting under Piloty. While considered conventional, it showed a strong sense of color. *The Knight and the Water Nymphs* showcased his decorative qualities. His reputation was truly established with *Modern Amoretti* and *The Plague in Florence*. Following these successes, the Austrian Emperor purchased his painting *Romeo and Juliet*. This led to invitations from the aristocracy to return to Vienna.

Hans Makart - Bildnis Gräfin Palffy (Die Betende) 1880 Öl auf Holz 127P5 x 90 Web
Hans Makart - Bildnis Gräfin Palffy (Die Betende) 1880 Öl auf Holz 127P5 x 90 Web

In Vienna, Makart transformed an old foundry at Gusshausstraße 25 into a magnificent studio.

Makart Atelier Wien um 1875
Makart Atelier Wien um 1875

He filled the space with sculptures, flowers, musical instruments, and jewelry. The studio became a social meeting point for different levels of society. It served as a space where nobility and the bourgeoisie could meet. The atmosphere was socially ambiguous and celebrated the master artist. His luxurious studio even served as a model for upper-middle-class living rooms. The painter became a mediator between these social classes.

Makart's influence extended far beyond the canvas into public life. In 1879, he organized the "Makart-parade" to celebrate the Imperial couple's silver wedding anniversary. He single-handedly designed the costumes, scenic settings, and triumphal cars.

Hans Makart - Charlotte Wolter als „Messalina“
Hans Makart - Charlotte Wolter als „Messalina“

During the parade, Makart led the procession on a white horse. This event allowed the people of Vienna to dress in historical costumes. These festivals became a Viennese institution that lasted until the 1960s. He also worked as an interior, furniture, and costume designer. His work embellished many public spaces on the Ringstraße.

Even in death, Makart's work sparked international interest. His painting *The Entry of Charles V into Antwerp* caused controversy in the United States. It was criticized for including nude figures in a modern scene. This controversy actually increased his fame among the American public. Makart's legacy is also seen in the work of Gustav Klimt. Klimt is said to have idolized Makart. The decorative focus of the Secession movement was influenced by Makart's priorities.

Today, his name is honored in Salzburg at Makartplatz.

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🖼️ Images & Media (8)
File:Statute of Hans Makart in Vienna.jpg
Statute of Hans Makart in Vienna.jpg
File:Modern Amoretti (Makart) right panel.jpg
Modern Amoretti (Makart) right panel.jpg
File:Hans Makart - Bildnis Gräfin Palffy (Die Betende) 1880 Öl auf Holz 127P5 x 90 Web.JPG
Hans Makart - Bildnis Gräfin Palffy (Die...
File:Makart Atelier Wien um 1875.jpg
Makart Atelier Wien um 1875.jpg
File:Hans Makart - Charlotte Wolter als „Messalina“.jpg
Hans Makart - Charlotte Wolter als „Messalina“.jpg
File:Makart hans der einzug karls v in antwerpen.jpg
Makart hans der einzug karls v in antwerpen.jpg
File:Makart Fuenf Sinne.jpg
Makart Fuenf Sinne.jpg
File:Abundantia, the gifts of earth by Hans Makart. Dated around 1870. Oil on Canvas. 161,2 x 445,1 cm.jpg
Abundantia, the gifts of earth by Hans...
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