Prague
Completed

Rudolfinum Gallery Presents: Erwin Dubský's Journal of a Voyage Historical Exhibition

Discover a unique collection of 19th-century global expedition photographs and ethnographic materials, with a focus on Japan.

This exhibition at Rudolfinum Gallery uncovers the fascinating collection gathered by Frigate Captain Erwin Dubský during his 1874-1876 circumnavigation. Explore rare artworks, historical documents, and ethnographic pieces. A highlight is the unique series of nine photograph albums, particularly those capturing early views of Japan by pioneering photographers, offering an extraordinary visual record of the era.

About Erwin Dubský: Journal of a Voyage at Galerie Rudolfinum in Prague

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Erwin Dubský: Journal of a Voyage at Galerie Rudolfinum in Prague

Exhibition summary

This exhibition showcases "Journal of a Voyage," a collection of artworks, ethnographic material, and documents amassed by Frigate Captain Erwin Dubský during his circumnavigation of the globe in 1874-1876. It particularly highlights a unique collection of nine albums of photographs, especially those focusing on Japan, created by pioneers of Japanese photography.

Curatorial context

The exhibition "Erwin Dubský: Journal of a Voyage" delves into the extensive collection assembled by Erwin Antonín Anna Dubský, a Frigate Captain in the Austro-Hungarian navy, during his 1874-1876 voyage around the world aboard the corvette Erzherzog Friedrich. Dubský, a member of an old Bohemian aristocratic family, systematically gathered artworks, ethnographic materials, and documents, amassing over 1,300 pieces, a fragment of which has survived. Central to the exhibition is a unique collection of nine albums of photographs taken in various countries visited by the expedition, including exceptionally rare views of Japan. These photographs, gathered from studios in every port of call, represent one of the most outstanding visual records of its kind globally. The exhibition particularly features 158 images of Japan by prominent early photographers, focusing on popular landmarks and genre scenes of local life. Notable are the early 1870s views of Nagasaki by Ueno Hikoma, a pioneer of Japanese photography, and unique views of Kyoto, Kobe, and Osaka by Ichida Sota. Works by Raimund von Stillfried-Ratenicz, a Bohemian-born photographer who trained many Japanese artists, are also displayed, alongside prints by other masters like Uchida Kuichi, known for his portraits of the Emperor and Empress.

Admission and ticket notes

The exhibition was held in two installments due to the sensitive nature of the photographs. The page also mentions that last entry is strictly 30 minutes before closing time and that admission is voluntary. However, current operational details (hours, exact admission policy) are not provided for the past exhibition.

Erwin Dubský: Journal of a Voyage key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Erwin Dubský: Journal of a Voyage at Galerie Rudolfinum in Prague

Venue
Galerie Rudolfinum
Current status
Completed
Exhibition schedule
Dec 7, 2006 – Apr 15, 2007
Artist line / attribution
Exhibition concept by Filip Suchomel and Marcela Suchomelová. Curator: Filip Suchomel.
More from Galerie Rudolfinum
Explore additional exhibitions from the same institution
Review other exhibitions from Galerie Rudolfinum in Prague to compare themes, timelines, and program direction while planning your museum visit.
The Last Painting Exhibition at Galerie Rudolfinum Prague
From Dec 18, 1997

The Last Painting Exhibition at Galerie Rudolfinum Prague

Exploring the 1997 revival of traditional Czech painting.

Delve into a key historical exhibition from Prague’s contemporary art archive. Learn how emerging Czech artists challenged the boundaries of the traditional medium through conceptual painting.

Exhibition Overview
Faces and Bodies of the Middle Kingdom Exhibition at Galerie Rudolfinum
From Mar 13, 1997

Faces and Bodies of the Middle Kingdom Exhibition at Galerie Rudolfinum

A landmark showcase of 1990s Chinese avant-garde art.

Explore a collection of eighty-seven works focusing on portraiture and figurative representation. Created by nineteen prominent artists, this display highlights the creative forces of the 1990s avant-garde movement.

View Exhibition Details
Watercolor illustration of the Decadence International Art Exhibition, featuring purple-hued gallery space with silhouetted visitors viewing provocative artworks on the walls.

Decadence Now! Visions of Excess: Contemporary Art Exhibition at Rudolfinum Gallery

Explore boundary-pushing art addressing excess, alienation, and taboo themes.

Explore 'Decadence Now! Visions of Excess,' an international exhibition examining decadence in contemporary art. Discover works by artists like Jeff Koons and Cindy Sherman, pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms through provocative themes. This project fosters crucial discussions on significant cultural topics.

View Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of an art gallery exhibition featuring Martin Mainer's recent works on nature and the forest, with visitors viewing paintings in a purple-hued space.
From Oct 8, 1999

Martin Mainer: Trailer of the Forest of Forests Exhibition at Galerie Rudolfinum

A survey of contemporary Czech painting from a significant artist.

Delve into the artistry of Martin Mainer through his 'Trailer of the Forest of Forests' exhibition. This collection at Galerie Rudolfinum highlights works from 1998–1999 by the acclaimed Czech painter.

Mainer Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of a contemporary Chinese photography exhibition titled 'A Strange Heaven' with visitors viewing artworks in a gallery space with purple lighting and banners.
From Sep 4, 2003

A Strange Heaven: Discover Contemporary Chinese Photography and Visual Arts

Features over 200 photographic works by 40+ artists from the 1990s.

This exhibition explored contemporary Chinese photography, showcasing its emergence as a distinct art discipline. It provided a broad perspective on the nation's artistic potential through numerous works.

A Strange Heaven Exhibition
Watercolor illustration of a gallery space with visitors viewing vibrant abstract paintings in purple, blue, and orange tones on white walls.
From Oct 5, 2006

ACNE: Discover Czech Painting from the Richard Adam Collection at Rudolfinum Gallery

A comprehensive survey of post-1980s contemporary art and diverse artistic styles.

This exhibition surveys influential Czech painting from the mid-1980s onward, drawn from a major private collection. It features works by various artistic generations and movements, including abstract and realist styles. Delve into key developments in contemporary art.

ACNE Exhibition
Prague

Find Current Exhibitions in Prague: Your Guide to Museum Shows

Explore Prague's vibrant art and history through diverse museum exhibitions.

Easily discover what's on display in Prague's museums and cultural institutions. Explore compelling temporary exhibitions covering a wide array of fascinating topics, from historical periods to modern artistic movements.