David Černý's Embryo

The fetus at night. Kocurik/cc by-sa 3.0

Tucked away on one of Prague’s many winding side streets is one of the lesser-known art installations by the famous Czech sculptor David Černý. Known as “Embryo,” this unusual figure sits on a drainpipe on the façade of the Divadlo Na Zábradlí theatre, and if you’re not looking up, you might miss it.

The embryo was installed on December 9, 2008, to celebrate the theatre’s 50th anniversary. If you’re lucky enough to stumble upon this installation at night, you’ll see the faint outline of a fetus lit up by an internal light. Although Černý’s intentions and thought behind the piece is unclear, many believe the glowing figure is an alien.

Černý’s provocative, quirky, and controversial sculptures can be found all over Prague. Though it’s more easily overlooked than his more well-known installations, “Embryo” is a must-see for every Černý fan.

Know Before You Go

On the facade of the Divadlo Na Zábradlí theatre (Theatre on the Balustrade) in Prague's Old Town, just a quick walk from Charles Bridge. For the full experience, try to get a look at the sculpture at night.