Karl Hagenauer was a celebrated Austrian sculptor and designer, best known for his whimsical yet refined metalwork that bridged Art Deco and Modernist styles. Born in Vienna, Hagenauer trained at the Vienna School of Applied Arts under prominent figures like Josef Hoffmann and became part of the influential Wiener Werkstätte movement. In 1919, he joined his father’s workshop, Werkstätte Hagenauer Wien, where he created a wide range of decorative objects—from stylized animal figures to elegant human forms. His work is characterized by smooth, flowing lines, minimalist detail, and a playful spirit, reflecting the innovative design ethos of early 20th-century Vienna. Hagenauer’s creations achieved international acclaim, particularly in Europe and America during the 1920s and 1930s.