JOSEF MOCKER (1835–1899)
Perex
Czech architect and an important representative of the Neo-Gothic restoration movement. He participated in the restoration and completion of many major historic monuments in the Czech lands and abroad. In Jáchymov he prepared the plans for the present form of the dean’s church of St. Joachim and St. Anne.
Life and Architectural Work
Josef Mocker was born on 22 November 1835. He belongs among the most important Czech architects of the second half of the nineteenth century and became one of the leading representatives of Neo-Gothic restoration purism.
His work focused mainly on the restoration of medieval buildings, which he often reshaped according to Neo-Gothic architectural principles. Through this activity he significantly influenced the appearance of many historic monuments.
Among his most famous projects are the completion of St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague, the restoration of Charles Bridge with its bridge towers and the reconstruction of the Powder Tower in Prague. He also participated in the restoration of the Old-New Synagogue and several Prague churches such as St. Peter and Paul and St. Apollinaris.
Mocker was also the architect of several newly built churches, including the Church of St. Ludmila in Prague-Vinohrady and the Church of St. Procopius in Prague-Žižkov.
Connection with Jáchymov
Josef Mocker is connected with Jáchymov through his architectural plans for the present form of the dean’s church of St. Joachim. His Neo-Gothic design significantly influenced the current appearance of this important landmark of the town.
Other Major Projects
Besides his works in Prague, Josef Mocker participated in restorations and architectural projects outside the capital as well.
These include St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral in Plzeň, St. Barbara’s Church in Kutná Hora and the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Ústí nad Labem.
He also worked on the restoration of several important castles, including Karlštejn, Konopiště and Křivoklát.
Death
Josef Mocker died on 15 November 1899.
