About the Exhibition
The exhibition presents Prague between 1740 and 1791, when the Rococo style reached its peak. At the same time the Enlightenment and rationalism developed and art that was reminiscent of ancient times emerged. The dates refer to the accession of Maria Theresa to the throne and the coronation of Leopold II in Prague.
Rocaille, a richly stylized asymmetrical ornament with scroll motifs is the main symbol of Rococo art. The central aspects are decorativeness, detail and sportiveness; the content and form are distant from the previous major themes. Rococo was a lifestyle associated with its typical fashion — it was mainly reflected in the interiors and furnishings; the rooms were designed as works of art with elegant and decorated furniture, small sculptures, decorative mirrors, and upholstery. Reliefs with mural paintings completed these features. Earthenware and porcelain emerged as the new element of interior decoration, especially at homes of aristocrats and rich burghers. Other town inhabitants tried to comply with the fashion trends using simple imitations.
At the time of sportive and decorated interiors, the lifestyle of town inhabitants radically changed. The reforms of Maria Theresa and Joseph loosened the overall atmosphere bringing about religious, social, economic, demographic and cultural changes. At that time, patriotism flourished along with education and sciences. The year 1784 was an important milestone in Prague history when the previously separate towns of Prague merged into one municipal government. In addition to that, the exhibition highlights other historic events that significantly influenced the life in town such as sieges and occupations by foreign armies, climate disasters, major changes of lifestyle, and living conditions of town inhabitants.
Items for everyday use, furniture, clothing, small objects, paintings, sculptures, graphic sheets, books, and other exhibits from the collections and depositaries of the two organizing institutions are the cornerstones of the exhibition. Remarkable items have been provided by other cultural institutions of Prague such as the Museum of Decorative Arts, National Gallery, National Museum, Strahov Library, the Archives of Prague Castle, and prominent private collections.
A publication including thirteen professional studies and more than a hundred coloured pictures will be published for the exhibition as well as an information leaflet and a complete list of exhibits.
The exhibition is held under the auspices of the Mayor of Prague Mr. Bohuslav Svoboda.