Biedermeier Apartment with Wall Paintings by Josef Navrátil

On the first floor of the historic Vávrov mlýn, originally the mill owner's residence of Václav Michalovic, interior paintings from 1847 are preserved, representing one of the most remarkable examples of Biedermeier burgher culture in Prague.

Their author, the prominent Czech painter Josef Navrátil, was one of the most sought-after artists of his time in the first half of the 19th century. The historic salons are now complemented by period furniture and a new intimate exhibition that introduces Navrátil's activity in the Petrská quarter and the breadth of his artistic work.

"The so-called Alpine Salon is particularly charming, painted with various Czech and European landscapes, which invited the contemporary viewer to a 'Zimmerreise' (room journey). This reflected contemporary interests in theatre, literature, music, and alpinism, and was an individualized representation of the homeowner. Michalovic's love of theatre was also significantly reflected in the decoration of the so-called theatre room, which Navrátil also furnished with an authentic stove in the spirit of the second Rococo. The remaining salons, one of which probably served as a smoking room, are adorned with ceiling paintings, undoubtedly executed by Navrátil's renowned decorative workshop*," described Marie Fiřtová, author of the exhibition on Josef Navrátil.