Madonna with Saint Bernhard, Religious statue on Charles Bridge, Czech Republic
Madonna with Saint Bernard is a Baroque statue on Charles Bridge depicting the Virgin Mary with the Christ Child while Saint Bernard kneels before them in monastic robes. The original now resides in the National Museum's Lapidarium for preservation, while a replica stands at its original location on the bridge.
Sculptor Matěj Václav Jäckel created this work in 1708 as a Baroque monument for a Cistercian abbey abbot. It emerged during a period of significant artistic activity in Prague following the turmoil of the 17th century.
The statue displays religious symbols such as the cross and Veronica's Veil that reflect medieval Christian devotional practices. These elements were central to Baroque piety as it was practiced in early 18th-century Prague.
The statue stands on the pedestrian bridge path alongside other Baroque sculptures that line the way across. Early morning or mid-afternoon visits work best to see the detail clearly without heavy crowds.
The base bears Latin inscriptions recording a dialogue between Mary and Bernard, with responses of AVE MARIA and SALVE BERNARDE. These mutual greetings were a common feature of Baroque religious artworks from this period.
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