Thathanka Iyotake - Sitting Bull (USA) - untraditional marionette

Zlatna Kostova’s review: If you think you've already seen all the magic Prague has to offer, visit Czech Marionettes. It may well become the highlight of your trip. Walking into this beautiful workshop and gallery felt like stepping into another world – a world where every puppet has a personality, a history, and a soul. There are antique marionettes waiting to be lovingly restored, newly carved figures taking shape from blocks of linden wood, theatrical puppets, film puppets, one-of-a-kind collector's pieces, custom commissions, and charming souvenirs. Everywhere you look, you can feel that this is not simply a shop but a living workshop where Czech puppetry continues to flourish. Even before my visit, I knew that Czech puppetry is one of the country's great cultural traditions, recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. After spending time here, I understood why. This is not merely craftsmanship - it is an art form passed down through generations with extraordinary dedication and love. Lucie Robinson, the wonderful manager of Czech Marionettes, welcomed my friend Tanya and me with warmth and genuine enthusiasm. She shared how she herself fell in love with puppetry after making her very first marionette in the workshop of the internationally renowned master Martin Růžička. Through her stories - and through a fascinating video from Růžička's studio - we caught a glimpse of the artistry and passion behind his remarkable creations. Daniel then took us "behind the scenes", showing us sketches, designs, carving tools, unfinished puppets, and restoration projects. As he demonstrated the marionettes, he handled them as if they were living companions rather than wooden figures. His affection for them was impossible to miss and wonderfully contagious. Around us, the workshop was alive with creativity. One artist was carefully repairing the broom of an evil witch, while another was delicately painting the faces of the Princess and her Prince from "The Nutcracker" and refreshing their costumes. Watching these characters slowly come to life was absolutely mesmerizing. Leaving Czech Marionettes was surprisingly difficult. It reminded me of the feeling I had the first time I entered the newly opened "The Moon-lit Room" puppet theatre in Sofia - you simply don't want the enchantment to end. If you are visiting Prague, don't miss this extraordinary place. Whether you are a collector, a theatre lover, an artist, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful craftsmanship, Czech Marionettes offers an unforgettable experience. I already know that every time I return to Prague, this will be one of my first stops.

Wow! Loved this puppet shop and studio. The owner was so friendly and kind. She showed me their workshop and lots of stories. � ❤️ …

Everything about my experience here was amazing!! Such a beautiful shop, truly dedicated to the art. All the puppets are handcrafted and the variety is great! I had a few questions about traditional checz puppetry and Lucie was so kind and helpful. I bought an amazing Vondník, but there really is something for everyone.

Purchased item:Water Sprite - original wooden hand-carved marionette