In 1932, Austria issued a commemorative set of six stamps to honour some of its most celebrated painters. This series, known as the Austrian Painters Issue, combines stunning portraiture with fine detail to pay tribute to individuals who have contributed to Austria’s rich artistic legacy. Each stamp carries a surcharge to support arts and culture, making it not only a philatelic masterpiece but also a funding mechanism for creative endeavours.
Stamp Details:
- 12g (+12g) – Ferdinand Georg Waldmüller (Green)
- Known for: His exceptional contributions to Austrian Biedermeier art, Waldmüller painted vivid rural scenes and portraits with meticulous realism.
- The green shade symbolizes his deep connection to nature and rural life.
- 24g (+24g) – Moritz von Schwind (Purple)
- Known for: Romanticism and fairy-tale-inspired works, Schwind’s art celebrated Austrian folklore and historic imagination.
- The regal purple reflects the whimsical, romantic elements of his work.
- 30g (+30g) – Rudolf von Alt (Red)
- Known for: His realistic yet delicate watercolors of Austrian landscapes and cities, von Alt was a pioneer in urban and natural depiction.
- The bright red denotes vitality and his pioneering influence.
- 40g (+40g) – Hans Makart (Grey)
- Known for: Lavish historical paintings and influence on Viennese fashion and design in the 19th century.
- The grey emphasizes the grandeur and theatrical drama he brought to his works.
- 64g (+64g) – Gustav Klimt (Brown)
- Known for: Iconic contributions to the Vienna Secession movement and his golden, ornamental portraits.
- The brown reflects the warmth and richness of Klimt’s ornamental style.
- 1s (+1s) – Albin Egger-Lienz (Red-Brown)
- Known for: His powerful and somber depictions of rural life and humanity’s struggles, blending realism with expressionism.
- The red-brown hue resonates with the earthy themes he explored in his paintings.
Legacy of the Set:
This series stands out in Austrian philately as a tribute to its cultural identity and artistic achievements. By featuring these six painters, the stamps not only preserve their legacy but also highlight Austria’s pride in its artistic heritage.
Collectors cherish these stamps for their historical value, artistic design, and the deeper connection they provide to Austria’s cultural past. This issue remains a timeless gem, appealing to both art enthusiasts and philatelists worldwide.