Lot 45

Ludvík Kohl (1746 - 1821) A GOTHIC HALL WITH FIGURES

The precision with which Kohl depicted the Gothic cross and net vaults seem to aim to reconstruct the ancient hall on the canvas. Nothing falls short of perfect exactness; every line is strong and smooth. The groups of people chatting in the hall seem to act as staffage, their brightly colored clothing adding life to the composition of the impressive interior. A graduate of the art academy in Vienna and instructor of drawing in Prague, Ludvík Kohl was recognized in his time as an expert in depicting architectural elements. His work brings together rational technical expertise and aspirations for the ideal form. From the assessment by PhDr. Naděžda Blažíčková-Horová: “With its ribbed vaulting, View of a Gothic Hall may evoke a view of [Prague Castle’s] Vladislav Hall, but Kohl always connected realistic elements with imagined and classical lines and refined lighting.”