Franz Poledne

In 1888, while still a teenager, he began working in the studios of the set decorator, Hermann Burghart. He worked there until 1893. During that time, he attended the drawing school at the Höhere Graphische Bundes-Lehr- und Versuchsanstalt (Higher Federal Graphical Training and Research Institute). After that, he became an illustrator for magazines such as Über Land und Meer and the Illustrirte Welt.[1] From 1907 until his death, he worked for the Illustrierte Kronen Zeitung.

As a painter, he produced oils and watercolors.[2] His vedute documented the changes taking place in early 20th century Vienna, and he was one of a group of painters, including Rudolf von Alt, Emil Hütter, Franz Kopallik, Richard Moser and Erwin Pendl who created the familiar, sentimental image of "Old Vienna"[3]

He took part in World War I as a Master Corporal in the Landsturm, a reserve unit composed of older men. At the end of the war, he was awarded the Zivil-Verdienstkreuz (Civil Merit Cross) on the Medal for Bravery.[4] He was also one of the numerous painters who were employed by the Royal War Press Quarters[5]

He died following a serious illness. He had been treated by his friend, Dr. Emil Gelny, who later became involved in the Nazi eugenics program.[2]

Media related to Franz Poledne at Wikimedia Commons

• More works by Poledne @ ArtNet