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Belvedere Palace Exhibitions Overview
Belvedere Palace Past Exhibitions
The Picture This! The Belvedere Palace exhibitions at the Upper Belvedere Palace showcases artworks that highlight the influence of societal conditions on artistic expressions.These pieces reflect the influence of political and social environments, economic policies, migration, and international networks on the artists. Featuring works by renowned artists such as Gustave Klimt, Franz Xaver Messerschmidt, Adam Johann Braun, Martin van Meytens, Lucas Cranach the Elder, Michail Michailov, and Georg Eisler, the exhibition delves into how these factors shaped their art. This ongoing exhibition offers a profound exploration of the dynamic relationship between artistic expression and societal influences.
The Nedko Solakov: A Cornered Solo Show #3 exhibition at the Upper Belvedere Palace is set in one of the most unconventional spaces in the Palace - the museum's inconspicuous coatroom. Running from 24 November 2023 to 19 June 2024, this exhibition presents Solakov's introspective dialogue through canvas cut-outs displayed in a corner of his studio. The artworks reflect his thoughts and reactions to recent social and political developments. They offer a unique and intimate glimpse into the artist’s inner artistic conscience and creative process. This exhibition highlights Solakov's distinctive representations of contemporary issues through art.
The Carlone Contemporary: Michail Michailov, Dust to Dust exhibition at the Upper Belvedere Palace runs from 19 October 2023 to 14 April 2024. In this collection, Michailov explores how dust, tears, marks, and stains symbolise the passage of time, compelling viewers to reflect on their own value and existence. Inspired by the illusionist technique of trompe-l’oeil, Michailov’s coloured pencil drawings create a reflective visual narrative. These Belvedere Palace exhibitions highlight the artist's ability to use everyday elements to reflect on the impermanence and impact of time.
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The Belvedere: 300 Years a Venue for Art exhibition celebrates the Belvedere Palace’s 300th anniversary in 2023. Since its completion in 1723 and the public opening of the Imperial Picture Gallery by Maria Theresa in 1777. The Belvedere Palace exhibitions symbolised a shift towards enlightened absolutism that made art accessible to those beyond the upper classes. Held at the Lower Belvedere Palace from 2 December 2022 to 25 February 2024, this exhibition highlights the museum's rich history with works by Vinzenz Fischer, Johann Gottfried Auerbach, Egon Schiele, Lily Steiner, and others, reflecting its enduring legacy as a cultural beacon.
The Study Collection: Middle Ages and Renaissance exhibition at the Lower Belvedere Palace is housed in the Palace stables, adjacent to the Orangery. It showcases religious-themed artworks from the early 14th to the mid-16th century. Highlights include eight panels from the ‘Salzburg Altar’ by Rueland Frueauf the Elder, originally from the church of the Archbishopric of St. Peter. Other artists include Urban Gortschacher, Michael Pacher, and Meister von Großlobming. This is an ongoing exhibition that offers a rich exploration of mediaeval and Renaissance religious art.
The Renate Bertlmann: Fragile Obsessions exhibition at Belvedere 21 Museum showcases the work of a pioneering figure in the Austrian feminist avant-garde movement. Running from 29 September 2023 to 3 March 2024, this retrospective exhibition’s focus is around 200 exhibits from the late 1960s to her most recent multimedia productions. Bertlmann depicts the female body as a battleground where pain and pleasure coexist, challenging social ideals of gender and femininity. This collection highlights her innovative approach to defy stereotypes and push the boundaries of feminist art.
History of the Belvedere Palace Art Collection
The Belvedere Palace Art Collection stands as an iconic symbol of art in Vienna. The Palace was initially built in the 18th century as Prince Eugene of Savoy's summer residence. Designed by the renowned architect Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt, the Palace comprises two main sections: the Upper and Lower Belvedere. The Upper Belvedere, with its representative function, became an imperial painting gallery. After Prince Eugene's death, it was opened to the public, becoming one of the world's first public art museums.
Today, it houses Gustav Klimt's remarkable collection, including "The Kiss" and "Judith," along with masterpieces by Egon Schiele, Oskar Kokoschka, French Impressionists, and Vienna Biedermeier artists. The Lower Belvedere, opened as a modern gallery in 1903, is dedicated to temporary exhibitions, continuing its legacy of showcasing diverse and significant artworks. This evolution underscores the Belvedere Palace's enduring role in promoting and preserving art.
Belvedere Palace Exhibitions FAQs
What is the Belvedere Palace art collection?
The Belvedere Palace art collection in Vienna is home to some of the most notable artworks of Austrian artists, including masterpieces by Gustav Klimt, such as "The Kiss" and "Judith," . The collection also features works by Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka, French Impressionist pieces and Vienna Biedermeier art. The collection spans from the mediaeval period to contemporary art, housed in both the Upper and Lower Belvedere.
What are the Belvedere Palace timings?
The Belvedere Palace in Vienna is open daily, with the Upper Belvedere typically operating from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and the Lower Belvedere from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The Belvedere 21 museum generally follows similar hours, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It's advisable to check the official website for any variations or special holiday hours.
Why is the Belvedere Palace art collection important?
The Belvedere Palace art collection is important because it has some of the oldest and most prominent artworks of renowned Austrian artists. The Belvedere Palace exhibitions showcase artworks that span centuries right from the middle ages to the 20th century. These exhibitions feature iconic works by Gustav Klimt, such as "The Kiss," and pieces by Egon Schiele, Oskar Kokoschka and an array of Austrian art and French Impressionists.
How old is the Belvedere Palace art collection?
The Belvedere Art Collection dates back to the early 18th century when the Belvedere Palace was constructed as the summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy. The Upper Belvedere became an imperial painting gallery shortly after his death in 1736, making the collection nearly 300 years old. It was one of the world's first public art museums when it opened to the public.
What can you see as part of the Belvedere Palace art collection?
The Belvedere Palace exhibitions showcase Gustav Klimt's masterpieces like "The Kiss" and "Judith," Egon Schiele's "Death and the Maiden," and Oskar Kokoschka's notable works. Visitors can also see Franz Xaver Messerschmidt's character heads, various Baroque and Biedermeier sculptures, and French Impressionist paintings. Additionally, the collection includes mediaeval artefacts and contemporary art pieces, offering a rich, diverse artistic experience.