Centuries of a Revolutionary Idea

This monumental bronze relief is asymmetrically mounted on the façade of the former Supreme Court building above the entrance to the underground garage that faces Župné Square. While wood was the typical working material for Korkoš, for this work he chose bronze for its durability and suitability for the outdoor environment. The author's style nevertheless remains evident in his faceted rhythmic articulation of the surface. Linear incisions and sharp edges create the surface texture, contributing to the plasticity of the relief. 

The work depicts an epic multi-figural scene that thematically illustrates social transformations of the Slovak nation within historical continuity. Symbolism and metaphorical meaning are expressed through allegorical and historical figures. Particularly recognisable is the depiction of King Svätopluk with his typical attributes of crown, sword, and three rods, and the allegorical female figure in the foreground standing in celebratory pose, hands raised, filled with pathos. The ensemble is completed by two figures that represent the working classes. From a formal perspective, the work displays a geometric stylisation of figures and a rather centrifugal compositional scheme. 

The building, designed by Vladimír Dedeček (1984–1989), housed the Supreme Court of the Slovak Republic for several years. It currently stands empty while its reconstruction is being considered, but proposals have also been made for its demolition. 

NB

Research status as of 28 February 2024.


Authorship

Co-authorship


Years

  • 1989 – implementation

Type

Material

bronze

Technique

casting, moulding

Dimensions

500 x 200 cm

Inscription

in lower corner of composition: L. KORKOŠ

Condition

  • preserved, not maintained
deterioration of surface patina in several places

Registration

  • Located in Monument Zone Central Urban Area, Bratislava.

Owner

  • Slovak republic

Administrator

  • unidentified

Address

Župné námestie 11

Location details

above the entrance to the underground garage

Plot number

3269/3

GPS

48.1456530, 17.1055410

Other works in the area

The Will of the People

Alexander Trizuljak 1989

Fountain

Juraj Gavula 1989

Slovak National Uprising Memorial

Ján Kulich 1974

Dividing wall with reliefs

Andrej Goliaš 1966 – 1972