Journeys in Bohemia's Inspired Landscapes

Like the Renaissance from which it evolved, the Baroque period did much to shape European culture then and even now. The art of both periods focused on religious themes, but Baroque artists brought heightened drama and dynamism to their depiction in paintings and sculpture. This lavishly illustrated book uses the story of two generations of master sculptors, the Patzak family (in Czech, Pacák), to recount the creative forces at work 350 years ago in one corner of the continent, Bohemia. Georg Franz Patzak (in Czech, Jiří František Pacák), (1670-1742), the primary of the three Patzak artists, was born a serf of German-Czech origins in the Kingdom of Bohemia and used his immense talent and intelligence to rise above his humble origins and become one of the great artistic personalities of his time. Considered by leading art historians to be the rightful successor to the master Mathias Braun himself, Patzak’s life, works, and unique presence in key phases of Bohemia's history provide the perfect narrative framework to create understanding and awaken interest in preserving these and other works of art, many of which remain threatened by neglect and environmental degradation. Not a mere art history text, Journeys in Bohemia’s Inspired Landscapes spans a wide range of art, religion, history, tourism, theatre, personal anecdotes, and human interest across centuries right through to contemporary history, and explains the origin of the family name Patzak A unique collaboration of international experts, authors and photographers, this collection of essays and photography will engage readers of all ages with tales of visionary (and wealthy) noblemen, single-minded artisans, patriotic playwrights among other compelling figures, against a sweep of history from Jesuit churches to Nazi concentration camps. The 16 detailed car itineraries will lead to lesser-known parts of Eastern Bohemia where visitors can experience the Patzaks' work firsthand. But even armchair travelers will enjoy learning about and viewing these sculptural masterpieces, which have been beautifully photographed in situ, bringing to life the genius of an important period and location of Europe’s artistic patrimony.