Custom-made Marionette of Vlasta Burian in a football costume

Handcrafted collectible marionette of Vlasta Burian

The marionette is dressed in a vivid red top, white shorts, striped knee socks, and brown lace-up shoes, giving it a playful, theatrical appearance. With articulated limbs and classic string control, it is suitable as a collectible display piece, for puppet enthusiasts, or as a unique gift connected to Czech theatre and cultural history. Its stylized portrait carving and carefully assembled costume make it a distinctive marionette for collectors of character puppets, traditional marionettes, and handmade theatrical art.

The whole process of creating a custom-made marionette is very interesting and we are open to your ideas. We provide photo documentation from the manufacturing process and all the details can be customized. If you're interested in having a similar marionette made, don't hesitate to contact us! 

The time of the production usually takes about 90 days depending on the availability of our atelier workshop. In case you wish for an express order in a shorter period of time, let us know. For an extra fee, we can provide that as well.

Vlasta Burian

Vlasta Burian (1891–1962) was a celebrated Czech actor, comedian, singer, and theatre director, often called the “King of Comedians.” He became one of the most popular entertainers in Czechoslovakia through his distinctive humor, improvisational talent, and unforgettable stage and film performances. Active especially in the 1920s and 1930s, he starred in numerous comedy films and built a lasting legacy in Czech theatre and cinema. Today, he is remembered as one of the most iconic figures of Czech popular culture.

Vlasta Burian was not only a legendary Czech actor and comedian, but also a passionate sportsman and talented football goalkeeper. Before becoming famous on stage and screen, he played as a keeper for clubs including Sparta Prague and Viktoria Žižkov, and football remained an important part of his public image. That connection to the sport adds another layer of charm to this marionette, linking Burian not just to Czech theatre history, but also to the lively world of early Czech football.

Production details

The marionette itself is designed and printed by using 3D technology. Afterward, we carefully sharpen and shape each inch of the body, sew its clothes, make hair, paint the face, and tie the strings to a wooden controller. 

Once you complete your order, you will receive an educational video to learn how to play and control your marionette. All of our custom marionettes are built to reach the professional level of marionette playing. 

The cost of potential extra requirements will be calculated individually. Contact Lucie, the head of our guild workshop, for more info.

Payment options

We require a 50% down payment before we start the production. Or you can pay the whole amount right away.

Sizes and other variations

• We offer portrait marionettes in three sizes –  S - 60cm, M - 80cm, L – 100cm. Movable mouth and eyes are optional. The final price is dependent on these variants.
• This type of marionette is made to order. The production may take up to 8 weeks. But it is always worth it to wait for the final masterpiece.