Description
Primarily letters sent to Otto Wagner, the Austrian architect and teacher, from other architects, artists, publishers, and
students. Letters concern the work of Wagner and his correspondents, Wagner's influence, and exhibitions. Includes five letters
from Wagner dated between 1902-1917.
Background
Otto Wagner, known as the father of Vienna architects, was an architect, writer and teacher, whose followers included Josef
Hoffman and J. M. Olbrich. Wagner studied architecture at the Vienna Polytechnic School (1857-1859) and the Academy of Fine
Arts in Vienna (1861-1863). His writings include
Moderne Architektur (1895) and his (nearly utopian) work on urban design,
Die Grosstadt (1911). Wagner's architectural designs mark the change from the historical styles of the 19th century (in Wagner's early
designs this meant a sober use of Renaissance forms and details), to the modernism of the beginning of the 20th century. Most
of his designs consist of private and public buildings in and around Vienna. In his designs (particularly after 1890s), writings
and teaching, Wagner addressed one major issue: the search for new forms best suited for modern, urban life
Restrictions
Contact
Library Rights and Reproductions.
Availability
Open for use by qualified researchers. Many of the letters have typescript copies.