My favourite unique pieces of art and architecture in Vienna.
The Saliera by Benvenuto Celini (1500-1571) in the Kunstkammer of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, a masterpiece of the highest artistic quality, a manieristic small sculpture, a salt cellar, a piece of decorative art, representing the universe.
Do not leave the Kunsthistorisches Museum without having seen The Art of Painting by Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675), his most famous painting, which has been his public relations work. He paints himself at work, showing all the skills he has to offer. Pay attention to the valuable objects in his atelier –chandelier, geographic map, curtain and his expensive clothes.
In the Schatzkammer (Imperial Treasury, which is part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, combination ticket possible) among objects of high historical and the highest material value, you would see the Smaragtgefäss, a giant emerald (2600 carats) elaborated in the form of a vessel by Dionysio Miseroni (1607-1661). It is as big as a human fist, a miraculous manifestation of nature and of stone cutter’s art.
Visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts) in Vienna virtually.
Gustav Klimt’s (1862-1918) Kiss is a main attraction in Vienna, but not many know, that his masterpiece is the Beethoven Frieze (1901) in the building of the Sezession. It is homage to Ludwig van Beethoven, on the occasion of the 14th Vienna Secessionist Exhibition, dedicated to his 9th symphony – the Joy of Life.
Visit the Belvedere Gallery in Vienna virtually.
There is one church in Vienna, which will make you say “waw” when you enter it – Jesuitenkirche, the Jesuit Church at Ignatz Seipl Platz. Admire the highest of baroque art around 1700, designed by Andrea Pozzo (1642-1709). Pay attention to the twisted colorful columns made out of man-made marble, art which has been very much valued throughout the centuries up to today. If you look up at the ceiling you will have the illusion standing under a dome.