Facts About Votive Panel of Jan Očko of Vlašim
The Votive Panel of Jan Očko of Vlašim is a distinguished example of Gothic art, housed in the National Gallery in Prague, Czech Republic. This panel painting is particularly significant as it was commissioned for Archbishop Jan Očko of Vlašim, who is depicted kneeling before St. Adalbert of Prague. Although the artist remains unidentified, the painting's style indicates a blend of influences from Theodoric of Prague and the Master of the Třeboň Altarpiece.
Originally, this panel was installed in the chapel of Roudnice Castle and was consecrated in 1371 to honor the Virgin Mary along with Bohemia's patron saints. Measuring 181 by 96 centimeters, the painting is executed on a limewood panel and is divided into two primary sections. The upper portion features the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus, alongside portraits of Emperor Charles IV, King Wenceslaus IV, St. Sigismund of Burgundy, and St. Wenceslaus of Bohemia. The lower portion depicts Bohemian patron saints such as St. Procopius, St. Adalbert, St. Vitus, and St. Ludmila, with Archbishop Jan Očko of Vlašim shown kneeling before St. Adalbert.
The panel is regarded as one of the most important pieces of medieval Bohemian art, celebrated both for its historical significance and its artistic merit.