In "Vienna Adam," Rudolf Hausner presents a mesmerizing canvas that delves into the intricacies of human identity and mythology. Painted in 1957, this masterpiece is a testament to Hausner's artistic brilliance, seamlessly blending surrealism, symbolism, and deep introspection. At its core, "Vienna Adam" serves as a captivating exploration of identity, both personal and archetypal. The central figure, Adam, a recurring motif in Hausner's art, takes on a profound autobiographical dimension in this piece. The artist's face is rendered with exquisite detail and nuance, serving as a window into Hausner's inner world. Hausner's meticulous technique shines through in every brushstroke, as light and shadow interplay to create a sense of depth and intrigue. The deliberate use of color adds another layer to the narrative, drawing viewers deeper into the painting's enigmatic story.

However, "Vienna Adam" is more than a mere self-portrait; it's a complex meditation on the human condition. This portrayal of Adam transcends individuality, embodying universal themes of human existence, vulnerability, and self-discovery. The artwork invites contemplation of timeless questions surrounding identity and the quest for self-realization.What sets "Vienna Adam" apart are the enigmatic elements that surround the central figure. Symbolism permeates every inch of the canvas, offering viewers a multi-layered narrative. In this surreal world, reality converges with mythology, and the sailor's cap atop Adam's head evokes the epic journeys of Odysseus—a symbol of humanity's ceaseless pursuit of meaning and adventure.

Hausner's meticulous attention to detail extends to the surrounding environment, where each object and symbol carries profound significance. Each element within the painting demands careful consideration, encouraging viewers to unravel the intricate story concealed within the artwork. "Vienna Adam" defies the constraints of time and place, inviting viewers to embark on their own interpretive odyssey. It encourages introspection, offering a window into the artist's psyche while also inviting reflection on universal themes that unite humanity across generations. In the realm of Rudolf Hausner's artistry, "Vienna Adam" stands as an enduring masterpiece—a work that continues to captivate, challenge, and inspire those who behold its mesmerizing depths.

Details:
Artist: Rudolf Hausner
Title: "Vienna Adam"
Date: 2020
Medium: Print
Auction House: Yves Siebers Auktionen GmbH
Auction Name: Auktion 75: Kunst, Antiquitäten, Varia, Highlights der Moderne - Tag 2
Dimensions: 15 3/4in. by 11 3/4in.
Condition: Overall good condition.
Signature and Number: Signed in Plate; numbered bottom left.

About the Artist:
Rudolf Hausner, a renowned Austrian painter, sculptor, and printmaker, left an indelible mark on the world of art with his captivating and enigmatic works. Born in 1914, Hausner's artistic journey was marked by a profound dedication to his craft, an unwavering commitment to his creative vision, and a resilience that endured the challenges of his time.

Hausner's early artistic pursuits led him to the hallowed halls of the Academy in Vienna, where he studied under the tutelage of Fahringer and Sterrer from 1931 to 1936. However, the dark cloud of Nazi rule loomed over Europe, and in 1938, many of his early paintings fell victim to the regime's oppressive label of 'degenerate' art. In 1941, Hausner's life took a dramatic turn as he was drafted into the German army, serving until the end of World War II in 1945. This period of upheaval and strife left an indelible imprint on his artistic soul. Post-war, Hausner returned to Vienna, immersing himself in the study of the unconscious mind and Surrealist art, particularly drawing inspiration from the works of Max Ernst. It was during this time that he joined forces with fellow artists Wolfgang Hutter and Anton Lehmden to found the Viennese School of Fantastic Realism in 1947. This movement, which gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s, played a pivotal role in Austrian art, with Hausner emerging as its leading luminary.

A true polymath, Hausner's artistic genius transcended mediums. He excelled as a painter, lithographer, etcher, silkscreen artist, and sculptor. His oeuvre was a tapestry of potent symbols and imagery, with one recurring motif being the figure of Adam, a deeply personal and archetypal symbol in his work. The sailor-capped man, another captivating image in his art, symbolized the myth of Odysseus and his epic sea voyages, while also reflecting Hausner's own journey from youth to maturity. Each portrayal of Adam was idiosyncratic, a powerful vision meticulously executed, and a profound exploration of diverse art forms. Hausner's masterpieces spanned a wide range of mediums and included "Adam" (1957), "Adam Bezuglich" (1969), "Adams Wendeltreppe" (1971), "Adam Massstablich" (1972), "Adam Masstablich II" (1973), and many more. His works found a place of honor in the Panorama Museum in Bad Frankenhausen, Germany.

Numerous books and articles, such as "Rudolf Hausner" by Rudolf Hausner and "Grapfik von Rudolf Hausner, Wien" by Dieter Gleisberg, have chronicled the life and contributions of this distinguished artist. In 2014-2015, a grand exhibition celebrating Rudolf Hausner's 100th Birthday took place at the Museum Wurth in Kunzelsau, accompanied by a catalog titled "Rudolf Hausner: ICH bin ES: Sammlung Wurth und Leihgaben." One of his most notable works, "Adam bezuglich (Regarding Adam)," was published in 1969 as a limited edition of 100 impressions by Rembrandt Verlag, Berlin, as part of a series featuring the finest German and Austrian artists of the era.

Rudolf Hausner's legacy endures, not only through his prolific body of work but also through his enduring influence on the world of art. His ability to bridge the realms of reality and the subconscious, his mastery of multiple artistic forms, and his dedication to profound symbolism make him a true visionary in the annals of art history.