The permanent exhibition of the Museum of Decorative Arts in Prague aims to present a vibrant, multi-dimensional image of European applied arts from the Middle Ages to the 21st century. The core theme focuses on art in the motion of life.All things around us enter into human life, accompany it, and transform it both functionally and symbolically. Art and design thus co-influence lifestyles and the scenarios and models of human behaviour.
UPM_Art-Life_Sal_BMuseum of Decorative Arts In Prague
What kunstkammer was?
And what was it hiding?
Chambers with curiosities and art, known as Kunstkammers, served as treasuries where the encyclopaedic collections of European royal courts were preserved in the early modern age. They were remarkable compilations that wove together natural sciences and philosophy with the world of art. Their purpose was not just to amass a diverse plethora of artworks, valuables, and natural materials, but to build up an organic creative complex of knowledge.
Artificialia
Goldsmith’s works, such as nautilus shells (artefacts made of shells of sea animals), presented the artistic treatment of organic materials, blending human genius with the divine forces of nature.
The connection between nature and human creations
Renaissance art collections were intended to demonstrate the relationship between natural and artistic forms, the transitions between the miracles of nature and human creations.
Mechanical instruments
The development of astronomy, geodesy and mining engineering required precise measuring work and reliable instruments. Erasmus Habermel was one of the most prolific designers and manufacturers of measuring instruments of his time. From 1575 he worked in Prague.
This equatorial sundial is exceptional in its ornate design and size. A compass is placed in the base of the instrument.
The Kunstkammer were not only treasuries of collected wisdom, but also served as creative workshops and laboratories. The richness of the collections encouraged scientific and magical experiments, benefiting physicians, naturalists, as well as astrologers and alchemists.
Mysterious polyhedra
Mysterious ivory objects in the form of a system of coaxial stereometric bodies, intricately turned and carved down to the skeletal structure, formed the privileged items in the sovereigns' kunstkammer.
Reverse paintings
Reverse paintings on glass (verre églomisé) were luxurious artefacts represented in many princely Kunstkammern.se paintings on glass (verre églomisé) were luxurious artefacts represented in many princely Kunstkammern.
Commesso di pietre dure
Florentine mosaics were one of the main interests of Emperor Rudolf II. He summoned specialists directly from Florence - Cosimo Castrucci and his son Giovanni. The mosaics from the Castrucci workshop are exclusive because of their composition of minerals of Bohemian origin.
Supervision: Helena Koenigsmarková
Exhibition concept, specialized guidance: Radim Vondráček
Concept, curatorial expertise: team of curators of UPMExhibition design: 20YY Designers, Petr Bosák, Robert Jansa, Tomáš Varga, Adam Macháček, Jakub JansaPhotos: Gabriel Urbánek, Ondřej Kocourek
More photos on the museum's website
The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday 10am - 6pm, Tuesday 10am - 8pm, closed on Mondays.
Admission 350 CZK, reduced admission 180 CZK (students, seniors). Tickets can also be purchased online.
