Albert von Keller was a distinguished German painter associated with the Symbolist movement, born on April 27, 1844, in Gais, Switzerland. He was known for his exploration of psychological themes and his focus on depicting the mystical, the unconscious, and the supernatural within his works.
Von Keller studied at the Munich Academy from 1865 under the guidance of Alexander Strähuber and Karl Theodor von Piloty, and his early work was influenced by the academic painting tradition of the time. However, as his career progressed, he became increasingly interested in the Symbolist and Art Nouveau movements, which were gaining prominence towards the end of the 19th century.
His paintings were characterized by a fascination with female figures and often explored themes of sensuality and spirituality. Keller was intrigued by the occult and the metaphysical, which is evident in his works that include representations of séances and other supernatural events.
Albert von Keller was also a respected teacher and held a professorship at the Munich Art Academy, where he influenced a generation of artists. He was involved in several artist groups, including the Munich Secession, a movement that sought to break away from the traditional academic standards of the time.
Throughout his career, he exhibited his work widely and received significant recognition, both in Germany and internationally. His paintings were shown at various important exhibitions, including the Paris Salon and the Venice Biennale, and he was awarded numerous prizes and honors for his contributions to art.
Von Keller's work received renewed interest in the latter half of the 20th century, with art historians acknowledging his role in the development of modern German art. He died on July 14, 1920, in Munich, leaving behind a legacy that continues to be studied and appreciated by art enthusiasts and scholars alike.
