Book Launch Explores Montenegrin Stone Masonry Tradition

A new book titled “Tragom crnogorskih klesara”, authored by publicist and editor Slobodan Čukić, will be launched on November 18, 2023, at the Matica crnogorska in Podgorica. The event is scheduled to begin at 18:00 and will feature a discussion with Dragana Erjavšek. This publication, released by the Matica crnogorska, delves into the rich tradition of stone masonry in Montenegro.

The book offers an extensive look at Montenegrin stone masonry, highlighted in its first section, which focuses on dry stone construction. This technique has characterized rural stone masons since the arrival of the Romans in the region. The second part of the book examines gravestones from the period between 1878 and 1941, showcasing various naive representations, including portraits of the deceased, depictions of churches, and elaborate floral and geometric decorations.

The editor of “Tragom crnogorskih klesara” is Marko Špadijer, and the book is endorsed by Ivan Jovović, president of Matica crnogorska. The publication comprises 236 pages and is richly illustrated, featuring photographs and illustrations primarily sourced from the author’s field research.

Originally scheduled for release on November 6, 2023, the promotion of this book was postponed due to a national day of mourning declared by the government following the tragic deaths of 11 individuals at a retirement home in Tuzla.

Slobodan Čukić, born in 1964 in Peć, graduated in philosophy from the Faculty of Philosophy in Nikšić. His career includes roles at Radio Montenegro and the daily newspaper Vijesti, where he served as a cultural editor and later as editor of the Archive and Science sections. Since September 2015, he has been the editor of the feljton and Archive section at Pobjeda.

A member of Matica crnogorska, the Dukljanska Academy of Sciences and Arts, and the Montenegrin PEN Centre, Čukić has published essays in various magazines covering topics from philosophy and political science to film criticism. His previous works include titles such as “Izdaja o kojoj se ćutalo cijeli vijek” (2016) and “Zmije na pravoslavnim grobljima u Crnoj Gori” (2024).

The launch of “Tragom crnogorskih klesara” promises to be a significant event for those interested in Montenegrin culture and history, offering insights into a rich yet often overlooked tradition.