Josef Danhauser (August 19, 1805 – May 4, 1845) was an Austrian painter and lithographer, known for his contributions to the Biedermeier style. He was born in Vienna, Austria, and showed an early talent for art. At the age of 15, he entered the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna, where he studied under the renowned painter Johann Nepomuk Ender.

Danhauser gained recognition for his skill in portrait painting and genre scenes. His works often depicted the everyday life of the middle-class in Vienna during the Biedermeier era, a period characterized by a focus on domesticity, comfort, and simplicity. He captured the essence of this period through his attention to detail and his ability to convey the emotions and personalities of his subjects.

In addition to his paintings, Danhauser also excelled in lithography, a popular medium at the time. He produced a series of lithographs depicting scenes from Austrian folk tales and historical events. These prints were highly sought after and contributed to his growing reputation as a versatile artist.

Danhauser's career reached its peak in the 1830s and 1840s when he received numerous commissions from wealthy patrons. He created portraits of prominent figures, including members of the Austrian imperial family, and his works were exhibited in prestigious galleries across Europe.

Tragically, Danhauser's life was cut short at the age of 39 when he succumbed to a sudden illness. Despite his relatively short career, his artistic contributions left a lasting impact on the Biedermeier movement and continue to be admired by art enthusiasts and collectors today.

Josef Danhauser's works can be found in various museums and private collections, including the Belvedere Museum in Vienna and the Albertina Museum. His legacy as a talented painter and lithographer lives on, and he is remembered as one of the key figures of the Biedermeier era in Austrian art history.