Vienna School of Art History

The Vienna School of Art History is a group of scholars from late 19th and early 20th centuries, mainly based in Vienna, who revolutionized the study of art by emphasizing a scientific, contextual approach. They focused on analyzing the historical, cultural, and social background of artworks, rather than just their style or aesthetics. This approach helped develop art history into a more academic discipline, with methods like rigorous research and detailed analysis. Key figures include Aloïs Riegl and Gustav Klimt, shaping modern art history by viewing art as a reflection of broader cultural and historical currents.