Obverse. Photo © Magyar Nemzeti Bank
  • 2000 Forint 2014, KM# 863, Hungary, 100th Anniversary of Death of Ödön Lechner
  • 2000 Forint 2014, KM# 863, Hungary, 100th Anniversary of Death of Ödön Lechner
Description

Ödön Lechner (1845–1914) was a distinguished Hungarian architect credited with pioneering the Hungarian Secession style, which flourished in Central Europe during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Hailing from Pest, Hungary, Lechner honed his architectural skills in Vienna and Budapest before commencing his illustrious career.

Lechner's architectural vision was a fusion of traditional Hungarian and Eastern motifs with contemporary materials and methods. Drawing from Hungarian folk art, Islamic architecture, and Far Eastern decorative elements, he crafted a distinctive and vibrant aesthetic. His designs often featured vibrant glazed ceramic tiles, intricate brickwork, and elaborate metalwork, adorning both the exteriors and interiors of his buildings.

Among Lechner's most renowned creations is the Museum of Applied Arts (Iparművészeti Múzeum) in Budapest, completed in 1896. This Secessionist masterpiece showcases Lechner's innovative use of ceramics and his mastery of geometric forms, with Zsolnay tiles embellishing the dome and facade, creating a captivating visual allure.

Other notable works by Lechner include the Geological Institute and the Postal Savings Bank (Postatakarékpénztár), both situated in Budapest. Throughout his career, Lechner was a prominent figure in the Hungarian architectural scene, advocating strongly for the incorporation of national motifs in architectural design. He believed architecture should mirror the cultural identity of its people, striving to create structures that celebrated Hungary's rich artistic heritage.

Engraver: Mihály Fritz

Obverse

Depicts a half-length portrait of Ödön Lechner, seated in an armchair, with the Museum of Applied Arts in the background. The inscription "LECHNER ÖDÖN" is seen along the top edge, while below it, on the right side, the years of his birth and death, "1845" and "1914," are presented in two horizontal rows. Positioned above the armchair, on the right edge, is the engraver's privy mark.

The Museum of Applied Arts (Hungarian: Iparművészeti Múzeum) in Budapest, Hungary, is the world's third-oldest applied arts museum. Designed by Ödön Lechner, the museum was constructed in the Hungarian Secession style between 1893 and 1896. Its distinctive green roof and interior draw inspiration from Hindu, Mogul, and Islamic designs. Plans for renovation are underway, and the museum is currently undergoing restoration. The museum boasts a diverse collection of metalwork, furniture, textiles, and glass, along with a library. Additionally, it operates two other locations: the Hopp Ferenc Museum of Eastern Asiatic Arts and Nagytétény Palace.

LECHNER ÖDÖN
1845
1914

Reverse

Depicts the forecourt of the Hungarian Geological and Geophysical Institute. Positioned along the bottom edge is the inscription "HUNGARY," while above it, to the left, the denomination and the word "FORINT" are visible in two horizontal rows. Alongside the right edge, integrated into the staircase, are the mintmark "BP" and the year of issue "2014."

The main geological museum in Hungary, known as the Geological Museum of Budapest or Hungarian Institute of Geology and Geophysics, is situated on Stefánia út in the western region of Pest. Originally, the building served as the headquarters of the Hungarian Geological Society, founded in 1869. Designed by Ödön Lechner in 1896, it continues to serve as the home of the Geological Institute of Hungary. The museum's collection comprises minerals, prehistoric footprints, comprehensive information about Hungarian geology and its evolution, and a dedicated exhibition honoring Ödön Lechner.

BP. 2014
2000
FORINT
MAGYARORSZÁG

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Copper Nickel
Weight 27 g
Diameter -
Width 39.6 mm
Height 26.4 mm
Thickness 3 mm
Shape rectangular
Alignment Medal
Mint
Budapest Mint (BP)

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