Charles IV and the power of marvellous objects

Objetivo

The present study aims to investigate from a new perspective the collecting activities of Charles IV, king of Bohemia (1347-70), king of Romans (1346-78), and Holy Roman Emperor (1355-70). It proposes to go beyond narratives based on the nation-state and western-oriented research concepts, thereby renovating historical and artistic connections that national historiographies have obfuscated. In doing so, it will frame the topic trans-nationally. Rather than writing a large-scale synthesis based mainly on secondary sources, this research objective will be achieved by using a micro-historical approach focusing on a specific group of reused objects that are associated with Charles IV. At the centre of the project are Charles IV and the precious objects of diverse provenance which he acquired, assembled and commissioned to be adjusted. Being removed from the cultural context for which they were originally made and which determined their social values, the objects underwent, in different social and cultural contexts, transformation and subsequently integration with the new audience. They created multiple connections with the past and contributed significantly to the construction of the imperial self-image of Charles IV who was not only one of the most capable and effective rulers whom Europe had ever seen but also one of the greatest 'collectors' since the period of Classical antiquity.