Czech Republic Symbolism


Gabriel Cornelius Ritter von Max was a Prague-born Austrian painter.
Gabriel von Max was a significant artist to emerge from the Piloty School, because he abandoned the themes of the Grunderzeitliche (genre and history), in order to develop an allegorical-mystical pictorial language, which became typical of Secessionist Art.


Alfons Maria Mucha, a Czech Art Nouveau painter and decorative artist, was celebrated for his innovative contributions to art, particularly his distinctive style that became synonymous with the Art Nouveau movement. Born in 1860 in the Moravian town of Ivancice, Mucha exhibited artistic talent from a young age, initially showing a proclivity for drawing and music, which were closely intertwined in his perception of creative expression. Despite early financial and educational hurdles, Mucha's passion for art led him to Vienna and subsequently Munich, where he honed his skills and absorbed influences that would shape his future work.
Mucha's career took a pivotal turn in Paris, where his poster for the actress Sarah Bernhardt's play "Gismonda" gained him immediate fame. This partnership with Bernhardt catalyzed a prolific period during which Mucha produced a flurry of artworks, including paintings, posters, and illustrations, as well as designs for jewelry, wallpaper, and theatre sets. His works are characterized by their depiction of beautiful young women in flowing robes, surrounded by lush, natural elements and often featuring pastel colors—a stark contrast to the bold hues preferred by his contemporaries.
Despite his commercial success, Mucha aspired for his art to convey a deeper spiritual message rather than merely adhering to the trendy Art Nouveau style. This led him to undertake projects that were more personal and culturally significant, such as "The Slav Epic"—a series of paintings celebrating Slavic history. Mucha's legacy is not only preserved in his diverse body of work but also in his influence on the aesthetic values of craftsmanship and design.
Collectors and experts in art and antiques continue to venerate Mucha for his unique ability to blend artistic beauty with cultural expression. His works, which are housed in museums and galleries worldwide, remain a testament to his vision and creativity.
For those keen on exploring the world of Alfons Maria Mucha further and staying updated on new sales and auction events related to his work, signing up for updates is an excellent way to ensure you never miss an opportunity to appreciate or acquire pieces related to this iconic artist. This subscription is tailored for collectors and art enthusiasts, focusing solely on new product sales and auction events concerning Mucha's legacy.


Ferdinand Staeger was a Czech-born German symbolist painter and graphic artist, illustrator and fabric designer.
Staeger studied at the School of Technical Design in Brno and then the School of Applied Arts in Prague, from 1908 he lived in Munich and collaborated with the magazine Jugend. He was a participant in the First World War, his war drawings are characterized by humanity. After the war he illustrated books by Gerhard Hauptmann, Josef von Eichendorff, Eduard Mörike and Adalbert Stifter with great success.
During the Third Reich, Staeger collaborated with the authorities by painting several propaganda pictures, for which he was awarded the title of professor. In 1943 he lost his home in Munich to Allied bombs and many works were lost.
After World War II, he painted in an impressionist style, creating paintings of mythical, mystical, symbolic and religious themes. Many works belong to the genre of "magic realism". Staeger is also known as a tapestry designer, master of etching and ex-libris, and was a member of the Association of German Artists. His wife Sidonie Springer (1878-1937) was also a painter and graphic artist.


Toyen, born Marie Čermínová, was a prominent Czech artist known for her significant contribution to the Surrealist movement. Her work challenged conventions and explored the depths of the subconscious.
Toyen was known for her unique and evocative style, combining elements of fantasy, eroticism and dreams. Her work often features enigmatic figures, distorted landscapes, and symbolic motifs, executed with meticulous detail and a sense of mystery. She utilised a variety of techniques including painting, drawing and printmaking, thus demonstrating her versatility and artistic skill.
Throughout her career, Toyin collaborated with other Surrealist artists, including André Breton and Salvador Dalí. She actively participated in Surrealist exhibitions and contributed to various publications, demonstrating her artistic vision and ideological stance.


Julie Wolfthorn was a German artist, representative of the Symbolic Art Nouveau movement and member of the Berlin Secession. She studied painting in Berlin and then in Paris.
Julia Wolfthorn worked a lot and fruitfully, took part in exhibitions. She is widely known for her portraits of the poet Richard Demel, the family of the writer Gustav Landauer, the family of the architect Hermann Muthesius, the actress Tilla Dürje, and other Berlin celebrities of the time.
After the Nazis came to power, Julia Wolfthorn remained in Berlin, working with the 'Union of Jewish Culture'. In 1942 she and her sister were deported to Theresienstadt concentration camp.