Famous Paintings in the Kunsthistorisches Museum: the Originals

1. The Hunters in the Snow (Winter) by Pieter Brueghel the Elder, 1565
2. Adoration of the Trinity (Landauer Altar) by Albrecht Dürer, 1511
3. The Tower of Babel by Pieter Brueghel the Elder, 1563
4. The Art of Painting by Johannes Vermeer, 1668
5. Pathway in Monet's Garden at Giverny by Claude Monet, 1902
6. David with the Head of Goliath by Caravaggio, 1606
7. Susanna and the Elders by Jacopo Tintoretto, 1557
8. The Fire by Giuseppe Arcimboldo, 1566
9. Portrait of a Young Venetian Woman by Albrecht Dürer, 1507
10. Peasant Wedding by Pieter Brueghel the Elder, 1568

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   Pieter Brueghel the Elder (1525–1569)

   1. The Hunters in the Snow (Winter) by Pieter Brueghel the Elder, 1565

   Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna1565Oil on panel117 × 162 cm

   Executed in oil on wood panel, Bruegel demonstrates exceptional technical skill. Winter as Transition: The winter setting may represent a period of hardship or transition, reflecting both the literal climate and the broader societal changes occurring at the time.

   The originalOriginals by Pieter Brueghel the Elder

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   Albrecht Dürer (1471–1528)

   2. Adoration of the Trinity (Landauer Altar) by Albrecht Dürer, 1511

   Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna1511Oil on lime panel1234 × 1350 cm

   The Adoration of the Trinity (Landauer Altar) emerges from the brush of Albrecht Dürer, a presence that commands the viewer's attention through its sheer scale and spiritual weight. Commissioned by Matthias Landauer, the work was destined for the chapel of this institution, where it would watch over the community of believers. In 1585, Emperor Rudolf II acquires the painting, bringing it into his imperial sphere. In 1498, the Apocalypse series emerges, a collection of fourteen woodcuts that capture the intense energy of the Book of Revelation.

   The originalOriginals by Albrecht Dürer

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   Pieter Brueghel the Elder (1525–1569)

   3. The Tower of Babel by Pieter Brueghel the Elder, 1563

   Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna1563Oil on panel114 × 155 cm

   Executed with meticulous detail in oil on wood panel – a common practice of the time – this work exemplifies the Northern Renaissance style. In 16th-century Antwerp, a major trading center grappling with religious conflict between Catholics and Protestants, the image of a fractured society striving for a single, unattainable goal would have held particular resonance. Bruegel subtly alludes to these contemporary concerns through his depiction of diverse architectural styles – Romanesque, Gothic, even Eastern influences – hinting at a lack of unified purpose.

   The originalOriginals by Pieter Brueghel the Elder

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   Johannes Vermeer (1632–1675)

   4. The Art of Painting by Johannes Vermeer, 1668

   Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna1668Oil on canvas120 × 100 cm

   At the heart of the composition, a painter works with focused devotion, while beside him stands a figure of ethereal grace—Clio, the Muse of History. Vermeer draws heavily upon the symbolic language of his era, specifically referencing Cesare Ripa’s Iconologia to imbue every object with meaning.

   The originalOriginals by Johannes Vermeer

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   Claude Monet (1840–1926)

   5. Pathway in Monet's Garden at Giverny by Claude Monet, 1902

   Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna1902Oil on canvas92 × 89 cm

   The scene is bathed in the warm glow of sunset, with blends of pink, orange, purple, and gold creating a mesmerizing play of light and color. The garden at Giverny became his primary subject, inspiring some of his most celebrated works.

   The originalOriginals by Claude Monet

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   Caravaggio (1571–1610)

   6. David with the Head of Goliath by Caravaggio, 1606

   Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna1606Oil on canvas90 × 116 cm

   This painting captures the immediate aftermath of the battle, showcasing David’s contemplative expression as he holds the severed head of his defeated foe. The artist was facing a death sentence for murder and sought a papal pardon from Cardinal Scipione Borghese, who commissioned the piece. The sword in David’s hand bears the inscription "H-AS OS," interpreted as "humility kills pride." This dual symbolism —David's victory over Goliath and Caravaggio's personal struggle—adds layers of meaning to the artwork.

   The originalOriginals by Caravaggio

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   Jacopo Tintoretto (1519–1594)

   7. Susanna and the Elders by Jacopo Tintoretto, 1557

   Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna1557Oil on canvas147 × 194 cm

   Crafted by the renowned Venetian master Jacopo Tintoretto in 1557, this work captures a moment of vulnerability, moral tension, and divine justice. Painted during the Venetian Renaissance, this work reflects Tintoretto’s innovative approach to storytelling and his fascination with human emotion.

   The originalOriginals by Jacopo Tintoretto

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   Giuseppe Arcimboldo (1527–1593)

   8. The Fire by Giuseppe Arcimboldo, 1566

   Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna1566Likely oil painting66.5 × 51 cm

   The composition features an assemblage of meticulously rendered objects arranged atop an ornate, gilded platform that resembles a hybrid of a classical pedestal and a mechanical wheel. While the exact date of creation remains unknown, the style and thematic elements suggest a connection to Renaissance and Mannerist traditions, where symbolism and allegory played a vital role.

   The originalOriginals by Giuseppe Arcimboldo

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   Albrecht Dürer (1471–1528)

   9. Portrait of a Young Venetian Woman by Albrecht Dürer, 1507

   Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna1507Oil on panel (or possibly canvas)35 × 26 cm

   This work exemplifies Dürer’s evolving style, bridging the gap between the meticulous detail characteristic of German art and the softer, more atmospheric qualities favored by Venetian masters like Giovanni Bellini – whom Dürer greatly admired during this period. Executed in oil on panel, the painting demonstrates a remarkable delicacy of touch. Commissioned portraits like this served not only as records of individual likenesses but also as statements of social status and refinement.

   The originalOriginals by Albrecht Dürer

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    Pieter Brueghel the Elder (1525–1569)

    10. Peasant Wedding by Pieter Brueghel the Elder, 1568

    Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna1568Oil on panel114 × 164 cm

    Bruegel's use of lines guides the viewer's eye through the scene, with horizontal tables and benches providing structure, while vertical wooden beams add balance. The color palette consists of earthy tones —browns, greens, and muted reds—interspersed with brighter accents like white aprons and red hats.

    The originalOriginals by Pieter Brueghel the Elder

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   11. Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden

   Lucas Cranach the Elder · 1530

   Oil on panel · 81 × 114 cm

   Executed with meticulous craftsmanship, this piece exemplifies Cranach’s mastery of early Renaissance realism combined with detailed iconography. Cranach, a court painter to the Electors of Saxony, was deeply engaged with the spiritual and intellectual currents of his time.

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   12. Lucretia

   Paolo Veronese · 1580

   Oil on canvas · 109 × 91 cm

   The central figure, adorned in luxurious attire, exudes an air of regal bearing that suggests wealth and status. Paolo Veronese, alongside Titian and Tintoretto, was part of the "great trio" that dominated Venetian painting during this era. This painting is a prime example of Veronese's ability to blend narrative depth with aesthetic beauty.

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   13. Madonna of the Meadow

   Raphael · 1506

   Oil on panel

   The scene captures the Madonna with Child, tenderly cradled in her arms, surrounded by two attentive angels. Set against a lush, idyllic landscape, the composition radiates calmness, spiritual contemplation, and divine grace. The composition is structured around a pyramidal form, emphasizing stability and focus on the Madonna as the central figure.

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   14. Jupiter and Io

   Antonio da Correggio · 1531

   Oil on canvas · 163 × 70 cm

   This piece not only exemplifies the artistic mastery of its time but also captures the Renaissance’s spirit of discovery and celebration of human beauty.

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   15. The Large Forest

   Jacob van Ruisdael · 1650

   Oil · 140 × 180 cm

   While the exact date of creation remains unknown, this work aligns with the Dutch Golden Age’s fascination with landscape realism and natural beauty. This artwork’s emotional depth makes it an ideal piece for creating a serene atmosphere in both private and professional settings.

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   16. Children's Games

   Pieter Brueghel the Elder · 1560

   Oil on panel · 118 × 161 cm

   Created during the Northern Renaissance, this painting exemplifies Bruegel’s exceptional skill in detailed narrative and naturalistic representation. Painted in 1560, this piece reflects the societal values and cultural practices of Renaissance Flanders.

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   17. The Massacre of the Innocents

   Pieter Brueghel the Younger · 1601

   Oil on panel · 73 × 104 cm

   Pieter Bruegel the Younger's "The Massacre of the Innocents" is a powerful depiction of the biblical narrative from the Gospel of Saint Matthew, where King Herod orders the execution of all infant boys in Bethlehem. This color palette not only enhances the visual appeal but also underscores the harshness of the winter setting.

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   18. Summer 1

   Giuseppe Arcimboldo · 1563

   Oil on canvas · 84 × 57 cm

   The central focus of "Summer 1" is a human face and neck, meticulously crafted from an array of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and other organic materials. "Summer 1" is part of Arcimboldo's celebrated series "The Four Seasons," which he created during his tenure as court painter to the Habsburg emperors in Vienna and Prague.

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   19. Judith with the head of Holofernes

   Lucas Cranach the Elder · 1530

   Oil on panel · 87 × 56 cm

   The artwork portrays the dramatic climax of the story of Judith, a Jewish widow who saved her people from the Assyrian army by seducing and beheading their general, Holofernes. Cranach was not only a celebrated artist but also a close friend and staunch supporter of Martin Luther.

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    20. The Three Philosophers

    Giorgione · 1508

    Oil on panel

    The scene captures a moment of quiet dialogue or introspection, with each figure engaged in reading, writing, or thoughtful conversation. Created around 1508, this artwork reflects the Renaissance fascination with humanism, knowledge, and the harmony between humanity and the natural world.

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    21. Miracle of St. Ignatius of Loyola

    Peter Paul Rubens · 1618

    Oil on oak panel · 105.5 × 74 cm

    The painting depicts a miraculous event involving St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit order. Commissioned by the Jesuits in Antwerp for their church, now known as the St. Charles Borromeo Church, this altarpiece was part of a larger series of religious works aimed at reinforcing Catholic doctrine during the Counter-Reformation.

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    22. The Peasant Dance

    Pieter Brueghel the Elder · 1567

    Oil on panel · 114 × 164 cm

    Created during a period of social upheaval and religious conflict in the Netherlands, The Peasant Dance reflects Bruegel’s keen observation of everyday life. It is believed that Bruegel intended this painting – like its companion piece, The Peasant Wedding – to carry a moral undertone.

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    23. Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror

    Parmigianino · 1524

    Oil on convex wood panel · 24 × 24 cm

    Created in 1524, this work by the Italian late Renaissance artist Parmigianino captures the artist himself at the age of twenty-one. In 1527, he presents the Vision of Saint Jerome, a work that demands attention through its dramatic composition.

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    24. Infanta Margarita Teresa

    Diego Velázquez · 1659

    Oil on canvas · 1070 × 1270 cm

    The scene unfolds within a carefully orchestrated tableau. It was originally cut down in the 18th century, a common practice at the time to adapt portraits for smaller formats.

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    25. Stag Hunt of Elector Friedrich III the Wise

    Lucas Cranach the Elder · 1529

    Oil on lime panel · 80 × 114 cm

    Created in 1529 by the renowned German Renaissance artist Lucas Cranach the Elder, this painting exemplifies the Northern European tradition of detailed realism combined with a slightly stylized decorative approach. Crafted with attention to detail and vibrant color fidelity, it offers an authentic experience of Renaissance artistry.

The Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM, Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien, Museum of Fine Arts) — art museum — in Vienna, Austria. Its collection counts 472 approved works. Its highlights: Habsburg art collections, Picture Gallery, Egyptian and Near Eastern Collection, Greek and Roman Antiquities, Sculpture and Decorative Arts, Imperial Armoury, Secular and Ecclesiastical Treasury. Our catalogue lists 2,249 of its paintings and works on paper, by 771 artists, dated 1405 to 1911.