Mela Köhler (or Melanie Leopoldina Köhler) was an Austrian artist, who was born in Vienna on 18 November 1885 and died in Stockholm on 15 December 1960. She left a delicate and elegant mark on the art world of the early 20th century.
She studied at theMalschule Hohenberger and then at the prestigious Kunstgewerbeschule in Vienna, before becoming associated with Wiener Werkstätte, a collective of Viennese artists known for their refined aesthetic and handcrafted creations.. She signed her works ‘MELA KOEHLER’.
Her work
She illustrated numerous postcards, often featuring fashion scenes or postcards, or publishers such as Brüder Kohn and Munk. She also worked for magazines such as Wiener Mode and illustrated children’s stories.
In 1916, she even designed gift packaging for Bahlsen, a German biscuit company!
In 1931, she moved to Sweden and continued to createballet and theater costumes, as well as illustrations inspired by Swedish culture.
Son style
Her works are characterised by a gentleness and elegance very much in the Art Nouveau style, with flowing lines and soft colours. Her Christmas cards, in particular, exude a charming nostalgia that makes you want to get out your pencils and start drawing again.
Nowadays, l Mela Köhler’s postcards a source of joy for many collectors. On websites such as Delcampe, certain rare cards can fetch high prices. Want to discover more? Check out the dedicated category on Delcampe
