In Czech art František Bílek is regarded as synonymous with symbolism. His name is linked with sculpture and woodcarving as offshoots of the fine arts, but no less impressive are his drawings and graphics, which were generally preparatory works for his sculptures. Bílek found in them the initial shape and form of the work that he subsequently created mostly from wood or stone. He studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Prague (1887−1890), initially in the studio of the painter Maxmilián Pirner. When he was diagnosed with form of colour- blindness known as Daltonism, he transferred to the sculptural studio of Josef Mauder and later was awarded a scholarship to study in Paris. Bílek is considered to be a unique phenomenon not only in the context of Czech art but also internationally. His oeuvre extends into mystic levels, which are marked by philosophy, religion and literature. His close friends included the painter Zdenka Braunerová, the writer Julius Zeyer and the poet Otokar Březina. Each of them constituted important phases in Bílek’s life. The supported him and encouraged him at times of uncertainty, transmitting to him their spiritual energy and inspiration. The theme of Bílek’s oeuvre throughout his life was the search for the meaning of life and groping in the realm of personal and collective guilt and subsequent punishment. As a convinced believer he created his own vision of the world that he passed on to others in his own original fashion.