Sold for Millions: Gustav Klimt’s Unfinished ‘Bildnis Fräulein Lieser’ Takes Center Stage in Vienna Auction

A recently sold painting by Gustav Klimt, titled ‘Bildnis Fräulein Lieser’, was estimated to be worth between 30 to 50 million euros at an auction in Vienna. This unfinished work, painted by Klimt shortly before his death in 1918, depicts a woman with dark hair and was commissioned by a wealthy family. Despite uncertainties about the model’s identity, it is believed to be a daughter or niece of Henriette Lieser, who tragically perished in the Auschwitz concentration camp in 1943.

Although this painting did not fetch the highest price ever paid for a Klimt work, it still sold for the lower end of the estimated range. However, this reflects the enduring popularity and value of Klimt’s artwork in the art market. For example, his painting ‘Dame mit Fächer’ fetched £74 million in London last year, which was over 86 million euros at the time. These high prices highlight the continued interest and demand for Klimt’s works among collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide.