"Falling Leaves," Olga Wisinger-Florian, 1899.

Wisinger-Florian (1844-1926) was an Austrian-born member of the Stimmungsimpressionismus (or Mood Impressionist) movement of late 19th century Vienna. While something like this might be considered fairly standard work, at the time it was viewed as quite avant-garde.

After a career as a concert pianist ended due to a hand injury (seriously!), she learned painting under the noted Emil Schindler, and much of her work was in his style. But in 1884 she broke with him and adopted a stronger, more Expressionistic style which was very ahead of its time. She was quite renowned in her time, exhibiting at the Chicago World's Fair and fetching significant prices for her work.

Her work was largely landscapes and floral still lifes; today her body of work may seem conventional but it was different enough in her time to win her applause. And at least this work is very nice and seasonal.

From the Österreichische Galerie Belvedere, Vienna.

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