About this place
The monument to Otilie Sklenářová-Malá stands in Čelakovský Gardens in Prague's New Town, right next to the National Museum building, honoring one of the leading Czech stage actresses of the turn of the 20th century. This white marble figure, cast in a Shakespearean role, is easy to walk past without a second glance — which is a pity, since both the statue and the tribute behind it have a story worth knowing.
Who designed the monument, and when was it made?
The design and model were created by Ladislav Šaloun, one of the foremost Czech Art Nouveau sculptors, also known for the Jan Hus Memorial on Old Town Square. The actual carving, based on Šaloun's model, was executed by František Klemša between 1932 and 1933. The monument was formally unveiled on 7 May 1933.
What material is the statue made of?
The figure was carved from pale, whitish marble quarried in Laas, Austria — a stone prized in sculpture for its clean, even color. The statue rests on a low granite pedestal, creating a contrast between the smooth, light figure above and the darker, rougher base beneath it.
Who does the statue depict, and how?
The figure is over life-size, standing 280 centimeters tall, and portrays Otilie Sklenářová-Malá dressed as Hermione, a character from William Shakespeare's "The Winter's Tale." She is wrapped in a long, flowing cloak draped around her shoulders, her arms crossed over her chest, holding a linden twig in her left hand — the linden being a tree long associated with Czech national identity. The choice of role and attributes underlines her standing as one of the central figures of the Czech national stage.
What do the inscriptions on the pedestal say?
The front face of the pedestal bears the name "OTILIE SKLENÁŘOVÁ-MALÁ," while the back carries the dedication "GENIOVI ČESKÉHO DRAMATICKÉHO UMĚNÍ / VLASTENCE VZORNÉ" — "To the genius of Czech dramatic art, an exemplary patriot." That second inscription makes clear the monument was meant to honor not only her acting talent but also her standing as a patriotic public figure.
Is the monument protected and maintained?
The monument is listed in the Czech Republic's Central Register of Cultural Monuments under reference number ÚSKP 39806/1-1037, giving it full legal protection as a cultural heritage site. It is managed by the Prague City Gallery (Galerie hlavního města Prahy, GHMP). In 2019 the statue underwent a thorough restoration — cleaned and fully restored, bringing the marble back close to its original brightness after nearly nine decades outdoors.
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is the monument to Otilie Sklenářová-Malá? In Čelakovský Gardens in Prague's New Town (Prague 2), next to the National Museum building.
Who designed the monument and who carved it? Ladislav Šaloun created the model, and František Klemša carved it in stone between 1932 and 1933.
When was the monument unveiled? It was formally unveiled on 7 May 1933.
Which character does the statue portray? Otilie Sklenářová-Malá as Hermione from Shakespeare's "The Winter's Tale," wearing a long cloak and holding a linden twig.
What material is the statue made from? White marble quarried in Laas, Austria, set on a granite pedestal.
Has the monument ever been restored? Yes, it underwent a thorough cleaning and restoration in 2019.
Nearby places
Earn badges for the places you visit
Download NextOnTrip, discover new places and check off your trails.