Stěhovaci Kabinet 1934

"Stěhovaci Kabinet" or "Moving Cabinet" is a photomontage made by Jindrich Styrsky at an unknown date. Styrsky was a prominent figure in the Czech avant-garde movement of the early 20th century; he was deeply engaged with Surrealism, which profoundly influenced his artistic vision. In this piece, Styrsky collages contrasting elements to challenge conventional modes of perception. The juxtaposition of an intimate deathbed scene from the 19th century, with a modern, sexualized female figure creates a jarring effect. She stands confidently in a state of undress amidst a scene of grief. Styrsky blurs the lines between the sacred and the profane, the past and the present. One might consider how Styrsky reclaims the female body from the historical male gaze. The woman seems self-possessed, challenging the traditional representation of women as passive objects of desire or sorrow. Styrsky's work prompts us to consider the shifting roles of women in society and art. The emotive power of his images resides in their capacity to reveal both cultural anxieties and moments of liberation.