Edith Schiele

1912–1916

Success at exhibitions across Europe

In 1912–1916 Schiele took part widely and successfully in exhibitions: his work was shown in Vienna, Budapest, Munich, Prague, Hamburg, Stuttgart, Zurich, Hagen, Dresden, Berlin, Rome, Cologne, Brussels and Paris.

1913

First solo show in Munich

In 1913 the Galerie Hans Goltz in Munich mounted Schiele’s first solo show.

1915

Choosing Edith, and Wally leaves

In 1915 Schiele chose the more socially acceptable Edith, apparently expecting to continue his relationship with Wally; when he explained the situation, Wally left him at once and he never saw her again. In February 1915 he wrote to his friend Arthur Roessler that he intended to get married, advantageously, but not to Wally.

17 June 1915

Marries Edith Harms

Despite some opposition from the Harms family, Schiele and Edith were married on 17 June 1915, the anniversary of the wedding of Schiele’s parents.

20 June 1915

Called up three days after the wedding

Although Schiele had avoided conscription for almost a year, three days after his wedding he was ordered to report for active service: he was first stationed in Prague, where Edith stayed in a hotel while Egon lived in an exhibition hall with his fellow conscripts; his commanding officer allowed them to see each other occasionally.

January 1917

Transferred to Vienna: art comes first again

In January 1917, having done everything he could to get out of military service, Schiele was transferred to a military supply depot in Vienna and given no particular responsibilities. He was again able to focus on his art, and his output was prolific, reflecting the maturity of an artist in full command of his talents.