AUSTRIA - Palata umetnosti Madlena

18 century

Austrian art is primarily associated with the territory of the Habsburg Monarchy through centuries (from 18 to 20 century). The persons who had impact on the supreme interior design in the Habsburg Monarchy in 18 were the military leader Eugen of Savoy and Empress Marie Therese. They shared love of sumptuous palaces and expensive interiors, meticulously selected furniture, and luxurious artistic objects. Marie Therese showed inclination to artifacts from East Asia, especially Chinese and Japanese varnished objects which became fashionable throughput Europe. This period was marked by brutal wars and fight for power, but highly artistic sensibility and supremely esthetic lifestyle as well.

19 century

19 century brought development of modern art in numerous European countries, same as in the Habsburg Monarchy. Measures for promotion of the artistic activity were adopted, and had an important role in the cultural development of Central Europe at the turn of the centuries. Thus, promotion of art soon became one of the tasks of a modern “cultural state”, and its effects lasted even after the disintegration of the Monarchy. Establishment of schools for arts and crafts in the Monarchy was the first concrete attempt to develop Austrian national esthetics through development of modern design and promotion of applied arts.

A Viennese furniture designer (Thonet) developed his famous furniture made of bent wood as objects of modern art and style which presenting forerunners in the period; later, his technique of wood bending using steam was revived by leading designers of the Viennese modern movement.

In 19-century painting, Viennese artists frequently reflected elements of the style derived from the poetic of academic realism, which implies exact drawing, plastic modeling, measured harmony of colours, and compositional solutions.

20 century

Already in the end of 19 century, the Viennese secession movement emerged in Austria, founded by a group of artists – designers, sculptors, painters, and architects. The secession movement supported increased international artistic exchange, and reconsideration of the decorative art. The artists of the secession movement were talented furniture designers, who produced armchairs, lamps, cupboards, and tables which fit into the architectural exterior and interior designs. This movement developed an organic style, with typically floral patterns. Sophisticated furniture of Viennese secession, same as artistic and decorative objects, transformed Austria more than 100 years ago and they reflect their timeless appeal even today. Chandeliers, lanterns, and ceiling pieces in this style adorn the upper floors of the Palace.