Gustav Klimt (Austrian, 1862–1918) The Kiss, 1908–1909 Produced at the height of Gustav Klimt’s gold period, The Kiss has become the artist’s most recognizable work. This lovers’ embrace, amid a wildflower meadow, retains its allure more than a century after it was painted. In piecing together The Kiss, you may discover details in this well-known image that could give you a deeper understanding of the artist’s technique and vision.