Czech Cubism, House of the Black Madonna, Prague: 3 December 2015-31 December 2019

Different layers of “meta” are at work in Český kubismus [Czech Cubism]. The venue, called the House of the Black Madonna, was built as part of efforts to find a uniquely “Czech” version of Cubism. The architect, Josef Gočár, succeeded. Czech Cubism became much more than a nationalised “variety” of the style. It was a distinct approach, characterised by crystalline structures and brute geometric lines.

The works within the Black Madonna speak to Czech Cubism’s achievements. They range from décor and ironwork, to furniture @and pottery. In all cases, the Czech artists have aimed to to expand on what Picasso and Braque had begun in France at the turn of the 20th century. Pavel Janák and Bohumil Kubišta may not have Picasso’s fame, but their contribution to his movement here is undeniable.

Because it goes beyond the standard menu of paintings and sculpture, this exhibition is unusually interactive. In the so-called “active zone”, you can actually try the works out for size. Czech Cubist chair anyone? You never know, it might not be as uncomfortable as it sounds…

Likewise the Grand Café Orient on the first floor, apparently the only Cubist café in the world. The Cubist streak isn’t limited to the interior design, either. You can enjoy a “Cubist cream puff” here. Well, why not?

Jonny Elling

Dům U Černé Matky Boží

Ovocný trh 19, 110 00 Staré Město