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Carlos Relvas – Objekty věčnosti: A Landmark Exhibition of Pioneering Portuguese Photography

Explore the innovative spirit and diverse photographic achievements of Carlos Relvas, a foundational figure in art.

Galerie Rudolfinum proudly presents 'Carlos Relvas – Objekty věčnosti,' a significant exhibition dedicated to this foundational Portuguese photographer. Delve into Relvas's experimental approach, artistic sensibility, and numerous inventions across seven thematic chapters. This presentation marks the first time his work has been exhibited outside of Portugal in over a century, offering a comprehensive look at his enduring legacy. Prague serves as the premiere location for this traveling show.

About Carlos Relvas – Objekty věčnosti at Galerie Rudolfinum in Prague

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Carlos Relvas – Objekty věčnosti at Galerie Rudolfinum in Prague

Exhibition summary

This exhibition presents a representative overview of the work of Carlos Relvas (1838-1894), a pioneering figure in Portuguese photography. The exhibition showcases his mastery across various photographic genres and his innovative spirit, returning his work to the European photographic scene after over a century of obscurity.

Curatorial context

Galerie Rudolfinum presents 'Carlos Relvas – Objekty věčnosti,' a significant exhibition dedicated to the life and work of Carlos Relvas (1838-1894), a foundational figure in Portuguese photography. Relvas, who hailed from Golegã, was driven by a passion for the nascent medium, pursuing a dream to become a pioneer in photographic art. His experimental approach and exceptional artistic sensibility led him to achieve mastery in numerous photographic genres and to develop several inventions. A cosmopolitan scholar, Relvas corresponded with leading figures in European photography, traveled extensively, and consistently received awards for his work. Though he considered himself an amateur photographer, he was a highly sought-after portraitist and a member of the intellectual, artistic, and scientific elite of his time. His extensive library reflected his broad interests, spanning art, optics, chemistry, and philosophy. The exhibition, prepared in close collaboration with the city of Golegã and curated by David Korecký, is structured into seven thematic chapters: Objects of Eternity, Landscapes and Architecture, Portraits, On the Farm, Ships and Coasts, Everyday Life, and The Artist's Studio. This presentation marks the first time Relvas's work has been exhibited outside of Portugal in over a century, offering a comprehensive look at his legacy. The exhibition is conceived as a traveling show, with Prague serving as its premiere before moving to other European capitals.

Admission and ticket notes

Visitors are advised that the last entry to the exhibition is allowed no later than 30 minutes before closing time. If time is limited, visitors may re-enter the gallery at another time. Entry to the exhibition is voluntary. Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday (closed Monday and Thursday). The gallery address is Alšovo nábřeží 12, 110 00 Praha 1. A publication related to the exhibition is available, with only the English version currently in stock.

Carlos Relvas – Objekty věčnosti key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Carlos Relvas – Objekty věčnosti at Galerie Rudolfinum in Prague

Venue
Galerie Rudolfinum
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
From May 23, 2013
Artist line / attribution
Featuring the work of Carlos Relvas (1838-1894), curated by David Korecký.
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