OBJECTS A Movement of the Soul Ladislav Šaloun (1870–1946) Kiss vase, 1899 Plaster model, with colour patina; height 52 cm A remarkable creative achievement of Bohemian Art Nouveau craftsmanship, Ladislav Šaloun entered this model in a competition for a decorative vase announced by the Volné směry (Free Directions) art journal in 1899 and won the Grand Prix. The artist based his composition on the contrast between two lovers’ bodies (as they defy the vortex of immanent forces) and the static volume of this classical vase that served as a momentary support for the dramatically entwined bodies about to kiss.