Join us as we peel back the gold leaf to reveal the fascinating life of the man behind The Kiss. Gustav Klimt (1862–1918) rose from an impoverished childhood to become a founding member of the Vienna Secession and one of the most celebrated—and controversial—artists of the Art Nouveau movement.

In this episode, we explore:

• The Golden Phase: How Klimt’s fascination with Byzantine mosaics led to his signature use of gold leaf in masterpieces like Judith I and the Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I.

• Artistic Controversy: The scandal surrounding his "pornographic" paintings for the University of Vienna, which sparked a public outcry and led him to reject future public commissions.

• The Private Eccentric: Klimt’s devoted companionship with Emilie Fl ...