The Life and Career of Joseph Kiener
Joseph Kiener was a German painter, illustrator, and teacher. Born in Schwarzenfeld, Germany, he received his teacher training at the teacher seminary in Eichstätt after attending the preparatory school in Regensburg. His professional journey began as an assistant teacher in Pemfling and Waldmünchen. Following his training, he attended the art and crafts school and the Polytechnic in Munich, where he received support from the writer Emmy Giehrl. This connection led to a significant period as an illustrator for Giehrl's widely distributed children's books, published by Ludwig Auer in Donauwörth. He also provided illustrations for works by Angelika Harten.
In addition to his work with children's literature, Kiener was a prolific illustrator of drawings depicting historical monuments and archaeological finds for various books and magazines. His artistic output included decorative designs for magazine headers, greeting cards, honorary certificates, stained glass, and flags. His notable works include an altarpiece of St. Andrew for the parish church in Adelschlag and a pastel self-portrait.
Teaching and Artistic Contributions
Kiener's career was deeply intertwined with education. He served as a teacher of drawing and modeling at the Royal Gymnasium and the Teacher Training Institute in Eichstätt. He eventually attained the rank and salary of a Royal Gymnasium Professor. Despite his retirement in 1908, he returned to teaching during the First World War. His artistic legacy was showcased in exhibitions, including a dedicated exhibition in Eichstätt featuring oil paintings, watercolors, pastels, drawings, and etchings.
