Hygieia | Gustav Klimt | 1901 Size:24"x32" as is typical for depictions

as is typical for depictions of St

surrounded by the fallen bodies of earlier victims

and appears almost contemptuous of the threats

abstracted head formed from concentric white lines radiating across a dark background

Hygieia | Gustav Klimt | 1901 Size:24"x32" as is typical for depictionsIn this richly symbolic work, Gustav Klimt portrays Hygieia, the Greek goddess of health and hygiene, as a commanding and enigmatic figure. Draped in flowing red and gold, she holds the serpent and chaliceancient emblems of healing and wisdom. Klimts opulent use of gilded ornamentation, intricate patterning, and stylized form exemplifies the Vienna Secessions synthesis of beauty, mysticism, and symbolism. The goddesss solemn gaze and the serpentine