Image five. When I first stood in front of the canvas „The Union of Slav Dynasts“ from Alfons Mucha's monumental Slav Epic, I had the feeling that I was finally seeing something that was close to me, perhaps because the title includes Premysl Otakar II, about whom I already knew something. I stood there and once again had before me the never-ending story of Slavicness, clothed in the familiar colours, light and symbolism that only Alfons Mucha can conjure.
I will never forget that first impression – as if the entire tent of kings touched my future, even though the theme and image themselves were from the past. A festive scene unfolded before me, in which rulers, allies, relatives and guests met. And in the middle of them stands the majestic Přemysl Otakar II, a king whose name carries a hint of power, courage and vision. I also saw him as much more handsome than in our historical literature.
I have always admired him, but here, in Mucha's interpretation, he has acquired an almost supernatural grandeur and beauty. His gesture of welcoming new guests is extraordinarily friendly, yet it carries the power of a ruler who can unite entire nations.
I saw the emblem of his personal chapel – an eagle with outstretched wings. I realised that I was standing in front of a work that was not just a depiction of a historical event, but a vision of unity. Přemysl invited the Slavic rulers from neighbouring countries to the wedding of his niece Kunhuta of Brandenburg and the Hungarian prince Béla with the bold idea of creating a great Slavic coalition. It was not just a diplomatic gesture – it was a desire for peace, for a shared future, for hope. And as I looked at the canvas, I felt that Mucha had managed to capture this desire with incredible depth.
Each character in the painting has their own world, their own expression, their own story. It felt as if the entire tent was filled with the beating hearts of the rulers present. All in one place. The concentration of energy was immeasurable, so I stood quietly, watching and soaking up the atmosphere of trust, togetherness and solemn harmony. It was as if time had stopped for a moment.
I caught myself thinking: „But that's how it should be. That's what the dream of unity and peace should be like.“ And Mucha not only knew this, but also managed to brilliantly embody it and instil this idea deep within me.
The greatness of a work lies not only in its dimensions, but also in the fact that it has completely transformed me – or you, or anyone else. I still remember that when I left, I felt a sense of pride in our Slavic history, pride in my roots, and joy that such art exists, art that can stir such strong emotions. Yes, this is true art – from the lower to the higher and from the narrow to the broader. I carried and still carry within me enormous admiration for Alfons Mucha, who managed to connect history, the ideal of peace and timeless beauty in one painting.
This painting is not just part of the Slav Epic. It is an experience that stays with you for the rest of your life. And I am immensely grateful for it. Link to the fourth painting. Read more here
Jan Vojtěch, Editor-in-Chief, General News
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