Artists

Franz Anton Maulbertsch

Press release

300 Years of Eccentric Baroque

Marking the 300th birthday of the artist Franz Anton Maulbertsch, the Belvedere is dedicating an IN-SIGHT exhibition to his work. Maulbertsch was one of the artists associated with the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts who broke with convention in around 1750 and adopted an expressive style. He went on to become an influential figure in Central European painting during the second half of the eighteenth century. Maulbertsch’s early works are characterized by dramatic chiaroscuro and human figures with an expressiveness that at times verges on the grotesque. This attracted attention, particularly in clerical circles, and he was awarded numerous commissions to paint frescoes and altarpieces for churches and monasteries.

The Belvedere holds the world’s largest complete collection of paintings by Maulbertsch. Following extensive conservation treatments, the artist’s works can once again be appreciated in all their details and delicate colors.

Curated by Georg Lechner.