Emperor Franz Joseph I launched an urban expansion that established Vienna as a European center of art and culture. As part of this process, architectural landmarks celebrated today as famous tourist spots were constructed around the city center. However, these buildings were simply echoed historical styles. In the metropolis of Vienna where expectations and disappointments were abundant, artists from a variety of fields gathered and began engaging in a discussion over art for a new era.

In this context, Gustav Klimt gained considerable fame as a painter who decorated the newly constructed buildings. However, his goal was not to adhere to traditional styles. He experimented in an effort to escape from the conventional norms. He also initiated a special movement among like-minded fellow artists. Klimt became a pivotal figure for artists who dreamed of a new art that could transform Vienna. The Vienna Secession that Klimt and his colleagues founded provided a wind of freedom blowing through the city.