Egon Schiele (1890–1918) was an Austrian painter, a major figure in the early 20th-century Expressionist movement. Born in Tulln, Austria, Schiele was a protégé of Gustav Klimt, the famed Symbolist painter. Schiele's work is known for its intensity and raw sexuality, often featuring distorted figures and stark emotional honesty, a stark departure from the decorative aesthetics of his mentor.

Schiele's art often explored themes of death, sexuality, and self-discovery, challenging societal norms and pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in art at the time. His style is characterized by its expressive line work, bold color choices, and the unapologetic exploration of the human form, both in its beauty and imperfections.

Tragically, Schiele's career was cut short by his premature death at the age of 28 during the 1918 flu pandemic. Despite his brief career, Schiele's influence on the art world was profound, and he is remembered as one of the most important figures in the Expressionist movement, with a legacy that continues to inspire artists to this day.