Wally Neuzil

Walburga "Wally" Neuzil (1894-1917) was a central figure in the life and work of Egon Schiele, serving as both his lover and muse. Born in Tattendorf, Austria, Wally met Schiele around 1911, when she was still a teenager and he was a young emerging artist.

Wally not only posed for many of Schiele's most iconic works but was also a supportive figure and devoted companion during a crucial period of his career. She is depicted in numerous portraits and nudes that showcase the artist's characteristic Expressionist style, with intense and often provocative poses. One of the most famous portraits of Wally is "Portrait of Wally" (1912), which captures her beauty and the intimate bond between the two.

The relationship between Schiele and Wally was intense but also tumultuous. Their union lasted until 1915, when Schiele decided to marry Edith Harms, a woman from a good family who lived on the same street as Schiele in Vienna. This marriage marked the end of the relationship between Schiele and Wally, a decision that caused Wally great pain.

After the separation, Wally worked as a nurse during World War I. Unfortunately, she died young, at only 23 years old, in 1917, due to scarlet fever.

Wally Neuzil's figure remains a fundamental element in understanding Egon Schiele's work, not only for her role as a muse but also for the emotional and personal influence she had on the artist's life. Their bond is witnessed in the vibrant and dramatic works that Schiele created during the period of their relationship.