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Praha
Hlavní mĕsto Spálená 18, Nové Město
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Jan Evangelista PurkyněLibochovice, Bohemia 1787 - Prague 1869Czech anatomist and physiologist (Wikipedia) |
Josef Václav Myslbek
1883 (1927) |
Commemorative plaque of yellowish marble featuring a portrait medaillon and two allegorical figures, who represent (left) the practical importance of medical science, the help it gives to suffering mankind; and (right) scientific research in general and physiological research in particular.
The 1883 plaque was installed on the new building in 1927.
Shortly after the unveiling of the memorial plaque, the art critic Miroslav Tyrš published a detailed review in the art column Výtvarné umění of Národní Listy (8 May 1883). He emphasized that the intention had been not merely to install a commemorative inscription, but to create a true work of art worthy of Purkyně's memory: "It was not intended as a merely decorative inscription, but as a work of art by which the memory of the Czech scholar would be honoured in a fitting and dignified manner." Tyrš considered the plaque one of Josef Myslbek's early masterpieces, praising its seriousness, originality and avoidance of superficial effects.
He explained the iconography of the relief. The central medallion is flanked by two allegorical figures, which represent Purkyně's scientific research and its practical significance. The male figure on the right, holding a skull, personifies scientific investigation: "It is not a cold and lifeless allegory, but a remarkably successful representation of scientific research in general, and of physiological research in particular."
According to Tyrš, the young man's concentrated gaze and absorbed posture express the complete devotion of the scientist to his studies.
The female figure on the left symbolizes the practical value of medical science: "This figure signifies the practical importance of the science concerned with the human body, the help it provides to suffering mankind."
She is identified by the healing drink held in her outstretched hand. Beside her stands the staff of Asclepius, with the serpent as a symbol of renewal. Opposite the young scientist stands a burning lamp, representing both the light of science and the scholar's nocturnal studies.
Tyrš concluded by praising the harmony of the composition and noted with pride that the monument had been designed and executed entirely by Czech artists and craftsmen, calling it: "A highly accomplished work in every respect, a worthy tribute to Czech science created by Czech art.&qupt;
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zde žil a zemřel jan ev.purkyně –věnováno sp.č.lékařů a vm. besedou“ |
Here lived and died Jan Ev. Purkyně dedicated by the Association of Doctors and Artists |
