The exhibition in the exhibition hall “13” of the Gallery of West Bohemia in Pilsen deals with the depiction of the American continent in the visual arts of Central Europe in the 19th century. It was significantly influenced mainly by experience of travellers and collectors who came back from America with new experiences and also valuable artefacts of the indigenous population. The idealized image of the “New World” as a wild land with novel culture specifics and as a land of endless possibilities later collided with a critical stand. The latter looks with melancholy at the disappearing world of Native Americans and the problematic colonization of the wilderness. Thus, the dual perception finds itself between the wilderness and the big city, while moving from colonial stereotypes to a fascination with modern life and technological progress.
At the exhibition, you will see works and collector’s items by important 19th century authors, such as Mikoláš Aleš, Alfons Mucha, Vojtěch Preissig, Vojta Náprstek, Klementina Kalašová and Albert Sachse. Among the original indigenous objects on display are a ceremonial pipe, a painted buffalo robe and Indian jewellery. A model of a tepee, which Mikoláš Aleš and his brother Jan made themselves for play, will catch your attention. A unique exhibit is also the picture albums from the journeys to South and North America published by the naturalist Maximilian, prince zu Wied-Neuwied.
OPENING HOURS OF THE GALLERY
- Monday / CLOSED
- Tuesday–Sunday / 10:00–18:00
