Hans Makart: the magician of colors.

In the 19th century, academic history painter Hans Makart was something of a celebrity figure within the high culture of Vienna. After Makart was kicked out of the Vienna Academy of Art for being “devoid of talent,” a Viennese prince took pity on him and gave him an old foundry to use as a studio. Of course the rascal transformed this space into a sumptuous party palace to host bacchanalian affairs for Europe’s politicians and royals. The dude was basically the Andy Warhol of the 1800s. 

Makart was attended to with such intense adoration that many have likened him to a cult leader. He designed furniture and jewelry and was widely known for his impeccable interior design. His aesthetic became known as “Makartstil” and was emulated by the upper crust across Europe-- even Adolf Hitler was a fan. Yikes.

His bad boy vibes got him into occasional trouble, particularly some of his more risqué paintings of nudes (the most controversial of which depicted Charles V surrounded by a bevy of naked virgins). But for the most part, Makart’s detractors were forced to eat their words in the face of his rabid fanbase. Even the Vienna Academy had to admit the error of their ways, later hiring him as a teacher. 

When Makart died, he left behind an immense collection of art and antiques that boasted over 1,000 pieces. The dude was truly a legend.