A guided tour and an exhibition by Adam Štěch who meticulously unveiled the architecture, the art, and public spaces that encapsulate the Czech Republic spirit.     

Facets of the Czech Republic Embassy building in New Delhi

It was a splendid confluence of history, art, and culture that the Czech Republic Embassy in New Delhi celebrated on 25th October 2023.  The Czech Republic Embassy building and the campus, a true architectural gem ensconced in the heart of New Delhi, exudes a timeless charm. The grand event was led by Adam Štěch, passionate art historian, curator and architecture researcher from Prague.

On a gracious invitation extended to Punchat- An Architectural Talk, it was a delight to partake in the celebration of the Embassy building- a breathtaking manifestation of brutalist architecture by three Czech Republic architects Karel Filsak senior, Karel Bubeníček, and Jan Kozel.  Professor Rostislav Švácha considers the Embassy building as an important manifestation of brutalism in the architecture of the Czech land. This group of architects build embassies of Czech Republic in China, Brazil, Italy, Greece, Sweden and Egypt. The Indian partner company on the Indian side was "Gherzi Eastern Lt. Bombay ".  The Embassy campus houses the Czech Republic and Slovak parts.

The interior designed by Mr Karel Filsak, Mr Zbynek Hrivnac, Mr Jan Kozel include several works of art.  Adam, with a profound reverence for the building, walked us through the Embassy and thereby through the rich art and culture of Czech Republic.

The tour had a pit stop at the striking bronze sculpture, a masterpiece by a renowned Slovak artist, designer and sculptor Mr. Andrej Rudavsky. This sculpture stood as a poignant testament to the rich artistic heritage for which the Czech Republic is celebrated. Its delicate yet robust design encapsulated the essence of Czech Republic craftsmanship and artistic expression.

Our gaze was directed to the ceiling where awe-inspiring spectacle – the exquisite blow glass chandeliers, adorned the many ceilings within the campus.  It is noteworthy that glassmaking is an ancient tradition in Czech Republic dating back to ancient times and which has evolved over the years.   

Handcrafted by skilled Czech Republic artisans, these stunning chandeliers illuminated the space, casting a warm and inviting glow. These chandeliers were not merely ornamental; they were a manifestation of the Czech Republic dedication to craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail.

Majestic and well preserved Chandelier showcasing rich craftsmanship of the Czech Republic.                                                                                                               

The art within the Embassy was a vivid tapestry of the rich cultural history of the Czech Republic. Paintings, sculptures, and installations painted a vivid picture of Czech Republic life, history, and the journey that had culminated in the Embassy's 50th anniversary. The original artscape on display was a vibrant portrayal of Czech Republic culture, bridging the gap between history and the present.

Throughout the tour, one could not help but appreciate the painstaking care that the Embassy officials had dedicated to preserving this architectural and cultural treasure trove. Every artifact, every painting, and every piece of furniture were meticulously maintained, offering visitors like Punchat a unique opportunity to experience the artistic and cultural heritage of the Czech Republic.

The tour continued through various rooms, each furnished with remarkable pieces that eloquently showcased the artistic brilliance of Czech Republic craftsmanship. The chairs, as a piece of furniture and the balloon lamps, stood out as a testimony to a work of art in itself, reflecting the essence of Czech Republic design and heritage.

The culmination of the tour was marked by Adam's presentation, which shed light on the broader significance of Czech Republic Embassy buildings worldwide. He eloquently conveyed how these diplomatic missions played a pivotal role in fostering cultural exchange. His insights offered a global perspective on the far-reaching impact of Czech Republic diplomatic missions in the modern world. Thus the aptly titled exhibition, "Architecture for Export: Czech Embassies of the 1960s and 1970s".

As the tour drew to a close, Punchat was compelled to share profound reflections on this extraordinary event. It is not often that one gets an opportunity to view and experience the inner quarters of an Embassy. Buildings have many facets other than the material that make them. They are a confluence of thought, art, culture and a continuance of heritage. It is an identity of home away from home, especially in the case of an Embassy building of the Czech Republic.

Explore further with a pictorial walk of the Czech Republic Embassy.