Introduction
Visual Vignettes is a new series of mini blogs showcasing beautiful buildings around the world. The first story in the series takes us to Budapest, Hungary.
Spotlight: Török-Bankház Building
The Török-Bankház (Turkish Bank House) was a financial institution in the heart of Budapest that became known for organizing the class lottery. The building was erected in 1906. Designed by architects Armin Hegedűs and Henrik Böhm, it was designed in the Art Nouveau style and is located at Szervita tér 3. Originally housing offices, it has been repurposed for residential usage in the present day.
The upper gable displays a large mosaic entitled “Glory to Hungary,” completed by Hungarian artist Miksa Róth. Among the angels and shepherds who surround the Virgin Mary, Róth placed renowned figures of Hungarian national history throughout the design including Francis II Rákóczi, the Count István Széchenyi, and Lajos Kossuth.
The Architects
Henrik Böhm - born on April 10, 1867, Henrik was a Hungarian-born architect. After studying in Székesfehérvár and Budapest, he obtained his degree in architecture at the Budapest University of Technology in 1890. After traveling extensively, he settled in Budapest and designed in the secessionist style.
Ármin Hegedűs - born in Szécsény on October 5, 1869, Ármin partnered with Henrik after obtaining his degree in architecture at the Budapest University of Technology in 1892. Together, they designed some of the most beautiful buildings in Budapest.
The Artist
Miksa Róth was a Hungarian mosaicist and stained-glass artist responsible for making mosaic and stained-glass prominent art forms in Hungarian art. Born in Pest on December 26, 1865, Miksa apprenticed at his father’s leaded stained-glass studio. Both his father, Zsigmond Róth, and grandfather were glassworkers.
Starting his first workshop in 1885, Miksa continued to hone his craft over the next ten years. In 1896, he was commissioned to work on pieces for the new Hungarian Parliament building. The building was to be inaugurated at the 1896 Hungarian Millennial Exhibition, which celebrated the thousandth anniversary of the crowning of a Hungarian king. This commission launched his career and demand for his work.
His works decorate office buildings, private homes, churches, cafes, and even the Royal Palace: Buda Castle. Although most of his works are centered throughout Budapest, he completed works internationally as well.
Conclusion
Should you find yourself in Budapest, be sure to visit Szervita tér and observe this fantastic building façade! We hope you enjoyed the post and please leave any comments or questions below.
“Glory of Hungary” mosaic c. 1906