The Gustav Klimt painting “Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer” sold this week at Sotheby’s in New York for a staggering $236.4 million, making it the second most expensive artwork ever sold at auction, an extraordinary sale that underscores Klimt’s enduring allure.

Gustav Klimt, "Bildnis Elisabeth Lederer," 1914-16, Oil on canvas, 180.4 x 130.5 cm
Gustav Klimt, “Bildnis Elisabeth Lederer,” 1914-16, Oil on canvas, 180.4 x 130.5 cm

More from the auction house:

This enthusiasm for Klimt’s work was also reflected in the great interest shown in the two studies of Adele Bloch-Bauer. With impressive sale results of $520,000 and $480,000, the two drawings significantly surpassed their pre-sale estimates, offering clear proof of the continuing fascination with the artist’s work. While Klimt’s paintings often dominate headlines, his drawings are increasingly recognized as powerful, collectible works in their own right.

Gustav KlimtReclining Woman, 1912/13 Pencil on paper, 368 x 563 mm (14,5 x 22 in)
Gustav Klimt, “Reclining Woman,” 1912/13, Pencil on paper, 368 x 563 mm
Gustav KlimtStudy for the portrait of Adele Bloch Bauer, 1903 Pencil on paper, 445 x 308 mm (17,5 x 12 in)
Gustav Klimt, “Study for the portrait of Adele Bloch Bauer,” 1903, Pencil on paper, 445 x 308 mm

From W&K: Gustav Klimt was born on July14, 1862 in Baumgarten near Vienna. Klimt not only had a leading influence on “Vienna around 1900,” but also influenced later generations of artists. As one of the most famous representatives of Modern Art and founding member of the Vienna Secession, he is until today one of the most important Austrian painters today.

For more information or to submit an inquiry, please visit:
https://www.w-k.art/artists/gustav_klimt

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