Painted composition draft Jusisprudenz 1898

Gustav Klimt created this composition draft for Jusisprudenz using graphite on paper. Klimt was a leading figure in the Vienna Secession, a movement that challenged the conservative artistic establishment of the late 19th century. The drawing offers a glimpse into Klimt's evolving vision for his allegorical painting "Jurisprudence," one of three controversial works commissioned for the University of Vienna. Here, we see the artist's exploration of themes such as law, justice, and morality, rendered through a mix of mythological figures and symbolic imagery. In the centre an octopus covers a small figure who is crouched down. The draft shows the struggle between innocence and corruption. It reflects the complex and often contradictory nature of the legal system, and human experiences. The intensity of Klimt's vision can be seen through the emotional and personal experience of those grappling with societal expectations.