Karel Plicka – Prague in Photography (1940) Signed (inscribed) by a photographer Karel Plicka !! Photogravure technique !! Publisher: Česká grafická unie, Prague Year of publication: 1940 Pages: 208 Format: Large format (34 × 25.5 cm) Binding: Original cloth with dust jacket Condition: Very good; signed and inscribed by Karel Plicka on the title page; dust jacket with minor wear Description: This book presents a selection of Karel Plicka’s work from 1939–1940, capturing Prague in its authentic beauty. It contains 208 photogravure black-and-white photographs documenting both well-known and lesser-known corners of the city. The introduction was written by Zdeněk Wirth. The book is highly valued not only for its photographic quality but also for its historical documentary significance. Photogravure technique: The images are reproduced using the photogravure (rotogravure) process, which allows for exceptionally fine tonal gradations, sharp details, and strong contrast. This technique renders the photographs extremely faithful to the original negatives and provides a strikingly vivid visual experience. Each image appears alive and three-dimensional, making the book not only a historical document of Prague but also a work of art in itself. Significance and context: The photographs are breathtaking and captivating, depicting Prague’s architecture, streets, and atmosphere from the interwar period. Interestingly, Prague was not heavily damaged during World War II, so most of the places and architectural details shown in the images can still be seen today, giving the book both historical importance and enduring visual appeal.