The art of goldsmithing
I visited the impressive Mitrovský Summer Palace in Brno for a breathtaking and impressive exhibition. Masterful replicas by the goldsmith, Jiří Urban, the Cepeks and Patrick Bárta present the Bohemian Crown Jewels, which are the most precious artifacts of the Czech national cultural heritage. The original crown jewels can be viewed in the Old Royal Palace in Prague.
The Czech Royal Crown Jewels consist of the St. Wenceslas Crown was made by order of Charles IV, a royal scepter and a royal orb. The crown is made of pure gold of about 22 carats and is inlaid with 96 precious stones and 20 pearls, among which a rare rubellite on the front side of the crown. The golden royal scepter is decorated with sapphires. The royal orb is decorated with a cross inlaid with precious stones. It was used for the coronation of Czech kings or queens.
Legend has it that the Crown of Saint Wenceslas has magical powers, such that if an unauthorized person puts the crown on their head, they will soon die. It is said that the acting Reich Protector Reinhard Heydrich made a secret visit to the St. Wenceslas Chapel in 1941, where he placed the crown on his head. He was subsequently killed in an assassination attempt in 1942.
In addition to their masterful creations, we can get acquainted with the Czech rulers and their lives. We can also gain an insight into the fashion of the time, see Maria Theresa’s clothes, old documents, seals, and weapons. The entire exhibition is characterized by precision, detailed workmanship, and exceptional craftsmanship. We can also take a look behind the scenes to see how and with what breathtaking precision the master made copies of these valuable national treasures. It was definitely worth coming.
“A concerted effort to preserve our heritage is a vital link to our cultural, educational, aesthetic, inspirational and economic legacies – all of the things that quite literally make us who we are.”
– Steve Berry