THEMATIC EXHIBITION AT SUȚU PALACE
“Funerary Art in the Romanian Cultural Space. Themes and Symbols Based on the Sketches of Frederic Storck”
Death, as an inevitable part of human existence, has always been accompanied by a profound fascination with the afterlife and a particular respect for those who have passed away. These concerns, often charged with fear and questions about the unknown, are so ancient that their roots precede the emergence of the first civilizations. Without an interest in funerary rituals and the symbols of life beyond death, many of the great archaeological discoveries that reveal the stories of early human communities would have remained hidden.
In this context, the exhibition dedicated to funerary art in Romania becomes a compelling invitation to explore a tradition rich in symbolism and diverse cultural influences. The event not only highlights the aesthetic evolution of funerary art in the Romanian space, but also brings to the forefront the creations of Frederic Storck, one of the country’s most important sculptors. The exhibited works, commissioned by notable personalities, include sketches and maquettes that were later transformed into landmark funerary monuments for emblematic cemeteries such as Șerban Vodă (Bellu) in Bucharest and Sineasca in Craiova. Through this project, visitors are invited to step into the atmosphere of a bygone sculpture studio, discovering the details, themes, and symbols that give voice to an art defined by respect and beauty.
The exhibition is not only a lesson in history and aesthetics, but also an attempt to present the symbolism of local funerary art, which continues to inspire and move audiences to this day.
Curator: Dr. Vlad Vieru, museum curator, Frederic Storck and Cecilia Cuțescu Storck Museum
Art Department, Bucharest Municipality Museum