Art Treasures from the Collection of Patrik Simon – La Grande Bellezza Exhibition at the Montanelli Museum
Discover a unique exhibition of art treasures from the collection of Patrik Šimon, an important Czech art collector and historian. La Grande Bellezza is on display at the Museum Montanelli (MuMo) in the centre of Prague from 16 October 2024 to 30 April 2025. This exhibition features more than twenty thousand works of art including medieval, Renaissance and Baroque art as well as rare artifacts from different cultures around the world.
What does the La Grande Bellezza exhibition offer?
La Grande Bellezza presents the masterpieces of the Old Masters in dialogue with cultures and art not normally found in European art exhibitions. Visitors will see top European gems alongside fascinating objects such as a female sculpture from Nigeria, which offers a unique insight into the power of ritual and symbolism in contrast to Christian symbols.
Curator Patrik Šimon emphasizes the mutual interaction between different artistic traditions. This approach allows visitors to reflect on the interconnection between primary cultures and European Christian art.
Art and culture across the centuries
The exhibition at the Museo Montanelli offers a display of more than eighty carefully selected works from different historical periods and styles:
– Medieval sculptures and court art in confrontation with ancient sculptures and Rudolphine masters.
– Works by Baroque artists such as Anthony van Dyck, Gianlorenzo Bernini and Czech masters such as Karel Škréta, Matyáš Bernard Braun and Petr Brandl.
– Rare artefacts of non-European origin, such as a grave mask from Peru or a monumental sculpture from Papua New Guinea, convey the power of rituals and cultures from other continents.
One of the most interesting areas of the exhibition is the so-called cueing, inspired by the castle’s picture galleries, where you can see a variety of works from the Italian, Flemish and Dutch schools. This densely composed space offers a unique insight into the diversity of the European painting tradition.
Significant exhibits and artists at the exhibition
Among the works on display are marble sculptures by Gianlorenzo Bernini, portraits by Anthony van Dyck and paintings by Rudolphine masters such as Hans von Aachen, Roelant Savery and Daniel Fröschl. You will also find rare jewels such as a gilded sculpture of the Virgin Mary from France and unique works by masters not commonly seen in Czech collections, such as Amico Aspertini or Baccio Bandinelli.
Accompanying programme and curatorial tours
The exhibition is enriched by an accompanying programme with guided tours, lectures and meetings with experts. During the exhibition, contemporary art interventions will also change, complementing the main exhibition with a modern take on art making.
Practical information
Venue:
Montanelli Museum (MuMo)
Prague 1
Date of the exhibition:
16 October 2024 – 30 April 2025
The La Grande Bellezza exhibition is a unique opportunity for lovers of art and culture. Immerse yourself in the world of the old masters, gain a new perspective on the art of different cultures and discover treasures you won’t see anywhere else.
