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Cigar or bar cabinet

This cabinet exemplifies the Vienna Secession's aesthetic principles: geometric forms combined with natural motifs. Created by Koloman Moser (1868–1918), it showcases exceptional craftsmanship and embodies the Gesamtkunstwerk ideal – a fusion of art and design. Featured in the eighth Sezession exhibition, this piece reflects the artistic spirit of its time.

Explore the art of Koloman Moser (1868-1918), a key figure in the Vienna Secession & Wiener Werkstätte. Discover his stunning graphic design, architecture, and applied arts – from stained glass to furniture. A pioneer of Viennese Art Nouveau.

Giclée / Art Print

Museum-quality giclée or canvas print with fast production and flexible finish options. ( Buy Hand Made Painting Switch to Digital Image)

Corner sample of the P118B picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
P118B $10
Corner sample of the P118H picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
P118H $10
Corner sample of the P118W picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
P118W $10
Corner sample of the P438Z picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5.5 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P438Z $10
Corner sample of the P508JH picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P508JH $12
Corner sample of the P508YH picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P508YH $12
Corner sample of the P805H picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P805H $10
Corner sample of the P805Z picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P805Z $10
Corner sample of the P919BZ picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P919BZ $10
Corner sample of the P919G picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P919G $10
Corner sample of the P919XJ picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 7 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
P919XJ $10
Corner sample of the P959ZH picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
P959ZH $10
Corner sample of the P968JZ picture frame: moulded polystyrene, 6 cm wide and 4 cm thick
P968JZ $12
Corner sample of the W106C picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W106C $8
Corner sample of the W218G picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W218G $10
Corner sample of the W218JH picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W218JH $8
Corner sample of the W218Y picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W218Y $10
Corner sample of the W307PJ picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W307PJ $10
Corner sample of the W316G picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W316G $10
Corner sample of the W316PJ picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W316PJ $8
Corner sample of the W316Y picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W316Y $10
Corner sample of the W398PJ picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W398PJ $8
Corner sample of the W4111J picture frame: solid wood, 6.5 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
W4111J $10
Corner sample of the W500HY picture frame: solid wood, 7 cm wide and 5 cm thick
W500HY $15
Corner sample of the W500JH picture frame: solid wood, 7 cm wide and 5 cm thick
W500JH $15
Corner sample of the W692G picture frame: solid wood, 8 cm wide and 4 cm thick
W692G $12
Corner sample of the W849H picture frame: solid wood, 5 cm wide and 3 cm thick
W849H $8
Corner sample of the W940BG picture frame: solid wood, 7.5 cm wide and 4.5 cm thick
W940BG $15
Corner sample of the W953PJ picture frame: solid wood, 6 cm wide and 3.5 cm thick
W953PJ $8

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Total Price

$ 81

Cigar or bar cabinet

Giclée / Art Print

Reproduction Size

-

Total Price

$ 81

Quick Facts

  • Year: 1900
  • Artistic style: Art Nouveau
  • Medium: Wood, glass, pewter, paint
  • Subject or theme: Furniture Design
  • Location: György Ráth Villa, Budapest
  • Title: Cigar or Bar Cabinet

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
What artistic movement is Koloman Moser’s ‘Cigar or Bar Cabinet’ primarily associated with?
Question 2:
Where was Koloman Moser born?
Question 3:
What material is predominantly used in the construction of this cabinet?
Question 4:
In what year was ‘Cigar or Bar Cabinet’ exhibited at the eighth Secession exhibition?
Question 5:
What is a notable feature of the cabinet's design that distinguishes it from typical furniture of its time?

Koloman Moser’s Cigar Bar: A Symphony of Geometric Elegance

The Vienna Secession movement, born in 1897 as a defiant reaction against the conservative artistic conventions of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, sought to forge a new aesthetic path—one rooted in clarity, precision, and an embrace of modern geometric forms. Among its most influential figures was Koloman Moser (1868–1918), a multifaceted artist who excelled not only as a graphic designer but also as a furniture maker, architect, and textile artist. His “Cigar Bar,” created around 1903, embodies the spirit of this revolutionary movement perfectly—a testament to Moser’s unwavering commitment to Gesamtkunstwerk ideals: the unification of art and craft into a single harmonious whole.
  • Historical Context: The Secession emerged from a milieu grappling with anxieties about industrialization and societal change, rejecting the ornate grandeur of Historicism in favor of a more austere yet intellectually stimulating aesthetic. Moser’s work reflects this ethos, aligning itself with the broader cultural currents shaping Vienna at the turn of the century.
  • Design Principles: The cabinet's design is characterized by its striking simplicity—a double stand-like base supporting a cube-shaped body divided into two halves by a mirror. This geometric structure immediately establishes a sense of balance and order, mirroring the principles championed by Josef Hoffmann and Ludwig Wittgenstein, who were instrumental in establishing Wiener Werkstätte.
  • Material & Technique: Constructed primarily from walnut wood, Moser’s masterpiece showcases exceptional craftsmanship. The intricate inlay work covering the entire body is executed with meticulous attention to detail—rows of symmetrical motifs crafted from brass and enamel—demonstrating a mastery of traditional techniques adapted for contemporary expression.

The Mirror's Reflection: Symbolism and Spatial Illusion

Beyond its formal geometry, “Cigar Bar” possesses a profound symbolic dimension. The inclusion of a mirror within the cabinet’s interior serves as more than just a functional element; it represents introspection and duality—a visual metaphor for contemplating one's own identity amidst the complexities of the surrounding world. Moser skillfully employs spatial illusion to heighten the viewer’s experience, creating an atmosphere of refined contemplation. The mirrored surface subtly expands the perceived dimensions of the space, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in its elegant simplicity.
  • Vienna Secession Influence: Moser's embrace of geometric abstraction aligns seamlessly with the Secession’s rejection of academic conventions and its pursuit of expressive forms inspired by Japanese art and Islamic design—a deliberate departure from Western artistic traditions.
  • Decorative Motifs: The symmetrical motifs adorning the cabinet’s surface are not merely decorative embellishments; they embody the Secession's fascination with mathematical precision and harmonious proportions—reflecting a belief in the power of rational order to elevate aesthetic experience.

A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Artistic Vision

Featured prominently in the eighth Secession exhibition, “Cigar Bar” solidified Moser’s reputation as one of Vienna's foremost artists of the Art Nouveau era—a movement that celebrated organic forms and flowing lines while simultaneously embracing technological innovation. The piece exemplifies the Gesamtkunstwerk ideal—the unification of art and craft into a single cohesive artistic statement—demonstrating Moser’s unwavering belief in the transformative potential of creative collaboration. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its exquisite aesthetic qualities but also in its embodiment of Vienna's cultural dynamism during a pivotal moment in European history.
  • Ver Sacrum Publication: The Secession’s periodical Ver Sacrum documented Moser’s artistic endeavors and championed his innovative approach to design—further elevating his profile within the Viennese art community.
  • Legacy & Influence: “Cigar Bar” continues to inspire designers and artists today, serving as a timeless exemplar of geometric elegance and masterful craftsmanship—a testament to Koloman Moser's enduring contribution to the history of Art Nouveau.

Provenance and Recognition

The cabinet’s inclusion in the György Ráth Villa collection underscores its significance within Viennese art history. Its appearance in issue no. 3 of Ver Sacrum cemented Moser’s place as a leading figure of the Secession movement—a celebration of artistic innovation and cultural dynamism that reverberates through the decades. Today, “Cigar Bar” resides in the Museum of Applied Arts Vienna (MAK), where it stands as an enduring symbol of Austria's artistic heritage—a masterpiece crafted with unwavering dedication to both aesthetic beauty and intellectual rigor.

Questions & Answers

Is "Cigar or bar cabinet" by Koloman Moser a well-known artwork?

"Cigar or bar cabinet" by Koloman Moser has a recognized popularity level. This classification reflects how widely the work is recognized.

Is "Cigar or bar cabinet" held in the country of its creator?

No - the artwork is kept abroad. "Cigar or bar cabinet" is held in Hungary, while Koloman Moser was born in Croatia.

How harmonious are the colors of "Cigar or bar cabinet" by Koloman Moser?

The colors of "Cigar or bar cabinet" by Koloman Moser show a unified palette harmony. Harmony describes how the colors relate to each other.


Artist Biography

Early Life and Education

Koloman Moser, born on March 30, 1868, in Vienna, Austria-Hungary (now part of Croatia), was a pivotal figure in the Austrian art scene, particularly renowned for his contributions to graphic art and as a founding member of the Vienna Secession movement. His artistic journey began with formal studies at the Wiener Akademie and the Kunstgewerbeschule, where he later became an instructor from 1899 onwards. This academic foundation proved crucial in shaping his versatile career across various mediums. Moser’s family background influenced his early exposure to art and design, fostering a keen eye for detail and aesthetics that would define his artistic style.

Artistic Contributions: A Multifaceted Career

  • Graphic Art: Moser's impact on graphic art is undeniable. He designed postage stamps, magazine vignettes, and other printed materials with distinctive geometric patterns and stylized imagery. His designs were characterized by their clarity, elegance, and innovative use of typography.
  • Fashion and Applied Arts: Beyond graphic design, Moser’s talent extended to fashion, stained glass windows, porcelains, ceramics, blown glass, tableware, silver, and jewelry. This demonstrates his commitment to integrating art into everyday life.
  • Architecture: His architectural designs, most notably the apse mosaic and glass windows for the Kirche am Steinhof in Vienna (1904), showcase his ability to blend artistic vision with functional design. These works are considered masterpieces of Art Nouveau architecture.

The Wiener Werkstätte and Collaborative Spirit

In 1903, Moser co-founded the Wiener Werkstätte (Vienna Workshop) alongside Josef Hoffmann. This collaborative workshop aimed to create aesthetically pleasing household goods by uniting artists and craftsmen. The Wiener Werkstätte championed a philosophy of “Gesamtkunstwerk” – total work of art – where every aspect of an object, from its design to its production, was carefully considered. Moser’s involvement in the Wiener Werkstätte solidified his commitment to functional beauty and elevated the status of applied arts.

Influences, Development, and Legacy

Moser's artistic development was influenced by several key movements, including Art Nouveau, Symbolism, and the Vienna Secession. He drew inspiration from Japanese woodblock prints, which informed his use of flat planes of color and simplified forms. His style evolved over time, becoming increasingly abstract and geometric while retaining a sense of elegance and refinement. Moser’s legacy is cemented by his designs being immortalized on the Austrian 100 Euro Steinhof Church commemorative coin (2005), recognizing his enduring influence on art and design. He died in Vienna in 1918, leaving behind a significant body of work that continues to inspire artists and designers today. His contributions helped shape the course of modern art and design, emphasizing the importance of integrating beauty into everyday objects and spaces.
Koloman Moser

Koloman Moser

1868 - 1918 , Croatia

Quick Facts

  • Full Name: Koloman Moser
  • Nationality: Austrian
  • Date Of Birth: 1868
  • Date Of Death: 1918
  • Place Of Birth: Vienna, Croatia
  • Notable Artworks:
    • Decorating of the facade
    • Dancer
    • Three crouching women
    • The Frog King
    • Clash of the Titans
    • The Three Graces
    • The light
  • Artistic Movement Or Style: Vienna Secession
  • Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['Wiener Werkstätte']
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