What you are looking at
A couple embraces at the edge of a flowery meadow, wrapped together in a robe of gold. His side of the robe is covered in black and white rectangles; hers in circles and flowers.
Why it is famous
It is the high point of Klimt's so-called Golden Period, when he used real gold leaf in his paintings. The Austrian state bought it in 1908, the year he first exhibited it.
How big is The Kiss?
The Kiss measures 180 × 180 cm (70.9 × 70.9 in), without its frame. Its surface is about 8 times the area of the Mona Lisa.
Compare it with other paintings
Where to see it
It is in the Upper Belvedere in Vienna. The museum often has a line just for this room; go early.
Museums move and lend paintings. Check the museum's website before you travel to see one work. See all famous paintings in Vienna.
More by Gustav Klimt
Frequently asked questions
Who painted The Kiss?
Gustav Klimt painted The Kiss in 1907 to 1908.
Where is The Kiss?
The Kiss is in the Belvedere Museum, Vienna, Austria.
How big is The Kiss?
180 × 180 cm (70.9 × 70.9 in). Its surface is about 8 times the area of the Mona Lisa.
What is The Kiss made with?
Oil and gold leaf on canvas.
Sources: Wikidata Q698487; Wikipedia, "The Kiss". Checked October 17, 2026. How we check.