Prague, Dec 8 (CTK) – The Czech Culture Ministry permitted this week the export of the Slav Epic series of paintings by Czech Art-Nouveau artist Alfons Mucha (1860-1939), which is a national heritage item, for display in Japan, the ministry’s spokeswoman Simona Cigankova has told CTK.
She said the cycle would leave the Czech Republic in February. The exhibition in Japan will start in March.
Cigankova said the ministry has not yet made a decision on the display of the Slav Epic in China.
Some object to the Asian tour of the work out of fear of damage being done to the large-scale paintings depicting Slavs’ history and mythology.
Cigankova said the ministry has concluded that “corresponding conditions are guaranteed for the epic” in Japan.
The paintings, which are administered by the Gallery of the City of Prague, will be on display in the Veletrzni Palace in Prague until the end of the year.
After Japan, the paintings are to move to three Chinese museums. The Asian tour is to end in mid-2018.
The critics, who have signed a petition against the export of the paintings, and Mucha’s relative John Mucha have repeatedly expressed the fear that the epic may be damaged during transport.
They said the condition of the paintings is not clear and that the placing of them in transport tubes can irreversibly damage them.
Prague rejects all objections. The National Gallery says they are in an excellent condition and prepared for transport.
In 2012, the cycle moved to Prague from Moravsky Krumlov, south Moravia, where it was on display at the local chateau for dozens of years.
Mucha bequeathed the paintings to Prague. He wished that the city build an independent exhibition pavilion for them.
Mayor of Prague Adriana Krnacova has said the city is still seeking a suitable space for the cycle. She said it could temporarily return to Moravia.
