National Gallery Prague hosts exhibition on Queen Anne Jagiellon

The National Gallery Prague has launched a new exhibition at the Wallenstein Riding School dedicated to Anne Jagiellon, the Renaissance queen of Rome, Bohemia, and Hungary. The project, which runs until March 28, 2027, commemorates the 500th anniversary of the year 1526 and the rise of the Habsburg dynasty to the Czech and Hungarian thrones.

Departing from traditional historical narratives focused on male rulers, the exhibition offers a perspective centered on Anne Jagiellon. It highlights her role as an active sovereign involved in political and administrative affairs, as well as her activities as a patron of the arts. The exhibition explores the transition of power between the Jagiellonian and Habsburg dynasties, the development of Renaissance culture, and the Ottoman threat during the 16th century.

Key highlights include a 1521 portrait of Anne by Hans Maler and a rediscovered marble bust of Margaret of Austria by the Dutch Renaissance sculptor Conrat Meit. The display integrates authentic historical artifacts with digital visualizations and sound recordings to provide a comprehensive view of the era.