Franz Hagenauer

Franz Hagenauer was a renowned Austrian sculptor known for his innovative work with sheet metal. Born into a family of artists, Franz followed in the footsteps of his older brother Karl, who was a prominent designer of everyday objects and sculptures. However, Franz's true passion lay in sculpting, and he honed his skills under the guidance of the esteemed Franz Cižek at the Vienna School of Applied Arts. It was here that Franz developed his unique style, which focused on creating intricate and dynamic sculptures using metal as his primary medium.

Upon joining the family business at the age of twenty, Franz quickly made a name for himself in the art world with his groundbreaking approach to sculpting. Unlike traditional sculptors who favored casting figures in bronze or marble, Franz preferred to work with sheet metal, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the medium. His creations were characterized by their fluid lines, abstract forms, and striking use of negative space, which set him apart from his contemporaries.

As his career progressed, Franz's reputation as a master sculptor continued to grow, earning him accolades and recognition both at home and abroad. In addition to his work as a sculptor, Franz also shared his expertise with the next generation of artists as the head of metallurgy and metal design classes at the Academy of Applied Arts. His dedication to teaching and mentorship ensured that his legacy would live on through the work of future generations of artists.

Tragically, Franz's career was cut short with the untimely death of his brother Karl in 1956. Despite the loss, Franz stepped up to take over the management of the family business, carrying on the Hagenauer legacy with grace and determination. Today, Franz Hagenauer's sculptures can be found in museums and private collections around the world, a testament to his enduring influence on the art world. Visitors to Vienna can explore his work and learn more about his life and legacy through guided tours and exhibitions dedicated to this visionary artist.