A new sculpture installed on a residential rooftop in Prague’s Podolí district has become one of the city’s most talked-about installations.

The artwork, created by Czech sculptor Jakub Flejšar, depicts the legendary horse Šemík in an intimate act with a mare — a provocative reinterpretation of one of Czechia’s most famous myths.

The sculpture, titled “Šemík Happy End,” was installed on Tuesday atop a modern residential complex near the Podolské schody. It was commissioned by developers Jiří and Petra Šald, founders of the Villa Gallery project.

The couple, who designed the building as a blend of architecture and public art, say they wanted to give the legend of Šemík a new, playful ending.

Flejšar, known for combining industrial materials with strong emotional themes, said his aim was to offer an “alternative storyline” to the classic legend of Šemík — the heroic horse who famously saved Lord Horymír by leaping from Vyšehrad into the Vltava River.

“We’re naturally drawn to happy endings, though life rarely follows that path,” Flejšar explained. “This sculpture is about hope, renewal, and reimagining how stories could end differently.”

Since its installation, the metal piece has become a local sensation. Residents have been gathering beneath the building, snapping photos — often late into the evening — and sharing them on social media.

The sculpture’s notoriety has only grown as it now heads to auction. The current top bid stands at 900,000 CZK (about €36,000), with proceeds pledged to the Paraple Center, a charity supporting people with physical disabilities and their families.

After spending a few weeks on the roof, Šemík and his companion will move to a new home — though it’s safe to say their stay in Podolí won’t soon be forgotten.

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