Theodoric of Prague

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Theodoric of Prague (in documents Magister Theodoricus (working ca 1360 — 1380) was a court painter to Charles IV, Holy Roman Emperor; he was the first Bohemian painter^[1] whose name can be linked to a body of work. His masterpiece, by which he is known, was the Chapel of the Holy Cross at Charles' newly-completed Karlštejn, near Prague, containing a large series of slightly over-lifesize half-length portraits of saints and other notable figures on gold ground.

Master Theodoric was the first Czech painter confirmed by archived documentation. In other words, he was the first Czech painter whose name can be associated with a specific piece of art. Charles commissioned this specific work in 1359.

Theodoric’s magnum opus is a collection of panel paintings and wall paintings that were done on the commission of Charles IV for the Chapel of the Holy Cross at Karlstejn Castle. All together, there are 129 works, all of saints, prophets, or angels. One art museum’s review of these works by Theodoric stated that they had “only few equalis in the world: we believe that it is no exaggeration to say that they bear comparison with such artistic monuments and phenomena as the Arena in Padua, the churches at Assisi or Sta, Croce in Florence [and the] palace of the popes in Avignon.” ^[2] Praise this high is seldom offered and should be an indication of Theodoric’s skill as an artist.

Known for his bold and vigorous style, he is looked at as a central figure in the development of Bohemian art. As many other gothic painters, he used very bright and attention-grabbing colors and bold lines. He painted powerful figures in small frames, filling the viewer with the notion of monumentality. Famous for his use of light and reflection, he created the illusion of endless space in his work by allowing light to travel beyond the frame. He is considered a pioneer in this area. Scholars have disagreed on several aspects of Theodoric’s career. One historian noted that Theodoric was a “unique phenomenon” ^[3] whose works could not be explained by stylistic evolution, as there were no precedents for his art work, making one believe that he may have been self taught. Another scholar held an opposite opinion—that he was influenced both by Italian and French contemporary art.

Master Theodoric passed away, c. 1381, still working in Charles IV’s court. During the rest of his reign, the king never hired another court painter.

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