The explosion devastated Sklenář's gallery and destroyed a number of originals

Federico Díaz's ink paintings were torn apart by the shock wave.

Prague - The gallery of prominent Czech gallerist Zdeněk Sklenář, located in a building on Smetanovo nábřeží, which exploded on Monday, is partially devastated. The shock wave irreparably destroyed several original works of art. However, the extent of the damages cannot yet be quantified, Sklenář told ČTK today. According to an expert's estimate, the value of the works could amount to at least millions of crowns.
    "We cannot yet quantify the extent of the damages, as rescue operations are still ongoing," the respected gallerist told ČTK. "It was the most significant explosion of the last decade, and the condition of the gallery reflects that," he added.
    Jan Skřivánek, editor-in-chief of Art&Antiques magazine, which specializes in the auction market, estimates the value of the works in the gallery at several million. "In the case of the works located in the premises of the Zdeněk Sklenář Gallery in Prague, their value can be estimated at least in the range of millions, possibly tens of millions of crowns," Skřivánek told ČTK today.
    The exhibition hall was currently showcasing watercolors and ink paintings by Federico Díaz, a recognized artist with Czech-Argentinian roots. According to Sklenář, the entire exhibition was destroyed by the shock wave, similar to many other unique works. "These were originals that were torn apart, shredded, simply irreparably damaged," the gallerist described the condition. He did not want to comment on the price of the works, and it is difficult to estimate, as the works have not yet appeared on the art market.
    In his two spaces in the building on Smetanovo nábřeží, the gallerist also had works by other artists with whom he collaborates or whose works he sells. Among them are drawings and watercolors by Karel Malich, who currently has a large exhibition at the Riding Hall of Prague Castle, which Sklenář prepared.
    According to Sklenář, the international activities of the gallery will not be interrupted even after the explosion. "At this moment, evacuations and legal assurances of the tragic situation are ongoing. For a certain period, which I cannot determine, there will be a limitation on exhibition activities," Sklenář told ČTK. After the structural engineer weighs in and the owner decides on a possible reconstruction, he would like to restore the gallery in the space on the embankment. He claims to be supported in this by hundreds of supporters. "I receive calls from hundreds of friends of the gallery; it is mass support, almost touching, for which I would like to thank," said the gallerist. After the explosion, the gallery was visited by Prime Minister Petr Nečas and Minister of Culture Alena Hanáková.
    The Zdeněk Sklenář Gallery was established in the mid-90s in the eastern Bohemian town of Litomyšl. In 1999, it expanded its activities to Prague. Throughout its existence, it has systematically focused on the presentation of Czech art both in the Czech Republic and abroad. It exhibits authors from the late 19th century to the contemporary young generation. In addition to commercial and exhibition activities, Sklenář is also involved in publishing work. He publishes graphic albums and sheets of prominent Czech visual artists, as well as publications - monographs and catalogs.