Biblické ilustrace Jana Konůpka

Abstract

In the 19th century, illustrated Bibles reappeared in the Czech environment. On the one hand, these were illustrations taken from the milieu of the Nazarene movement, combining admiration for the old Renaissance and Baroque masters with modern works. On the other hand, particular popularity among Czech Catholics as well as Protestants was enjoyed by the illustrations of Gustave Doré. At the beginning of the 20th century, the circle of Czech bibliophiles conceived the idea of commissioning a completely Czech illustrated Bible. It was implemented in 1936–1939 through the efforts of the private publisher and printer Jaroslav Picka based on the Bible of Kralice, translated by the Unity of the Brethren; this edition was printed in the original typeface of Karel Dyrynk on Velké Losiny paper and supplemented with a number of illustrations, initials and decorations by Jan Konůpek (1883–1950). This complete edition of the New Testament was later complemented by selected passages of the Old Testament. Konůpek had devoted himself to Biblical images from the beginning of his career. His Biblical illustration work is mainly associated with the books of Arno Sáňka, Miloslav Novotný, Josef Portman, Jakub Deml and the above-mentioned Jaroslav Picka. Konůpek’s work is characterised by a combination of Biblical stories with Czech nature, architecture and history. His Biblical illustrations are still unique and remarkable.