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 Explore rare artworks, historical documents, and ethnographic pieces.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.
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.