The Čertovy hlavy, or Devil’s Heads, are a striking pair of giant sculptures carved into the sandstone cliffs in the Czech Republic. Towering at about 9 meters high, these eerie faces overlook the village of Želízy near the town of Mělník, about an hour’s drive from Prague. Created by Czech sculptor Václav Levý in the mid-19th century, the sculptures have become a curious and somewhat mysterious attraction, drawing visitors intrigued by their size, history, and the legends that surround them.
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Historical Background of Čertovy hlavy
The Čertovy hlavy were sculpted between 1841 and 1846 by the renowned Czech sculptor Václav Levý. Levý, known for his work in the romanticism style, found inspiration in the natural beauty of the Czech landscape. The sculptures were not discovered in the modern sense but rather commissioned by the local nobility as part of a larger set of works. Levý’s work on the site spanned several years, and the heads remain one of his most famous creations.
Levý himself was a prolific artist, but little is known about the specific reasons behind the creation of the Devil’s Heads. The sculptures were carved directly into the sandstone cliffs, a testament to Levý’s skill and the durability of his chosen medium.
About Čertovy hlavy
The Čertovy hlavy are monumental in scale, each head standing approximately 9 meters tall. Carved into the sandstone cliffs, they depict two giant faces with haunting expressions. The sculptures are an impressive feat, considering the technology available during the mid-19th century.
The method of construction was purely manual, with Levý and his assistants using chisels, hammers, and other hand tools to shape the sandstone. The choice of material was significant, as sandstone is both durable enough to withstand carving and soft enough to be shaped by hand tools.
The architectural highlights of the Čertovy hlavy are the intricate details in the faces, from the deep-set eyes to the flowing beards. The sculptures’ size and the precision of the details are a testament to Levý’s skill as a sculptor.
Over time, the elements have taken their toll on the sculptures, leading to erosion and the loss of some finer details. However, the overall structure and impact of the Čertovy hlavy remain intact, continuing to captivate those who visit them.
At a glance
Country: Czech Republic
Civilization: Created by Czech sculptor Václav Levý
Age: Mid-19th century (1841-1846)
Sources
- Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Čertovy_hlavy
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