February 12

Jakobín, a three-act comic opera by Antonín Dvořák, debuted on February 12, 1889. The libretto by Marie Červinková-Riegrová follows a tale of love, social class, and reconciliation set in 18th-century Bohemia. Dvořák infused the score with folk-inspired melodies and rich orchestration. The premiere at Prague's National Theater received enthusiastic applause from audiences and critics alike. This work helped solidify Dvořák's reputation as a leading composer of his age. It remains a beloved piece in the Czech operatic repertoire, celebrated for its charm and musical elegance.

The 'New Look' collection featured nipped-in waists, full skirts, and soft shoulders, a dramatic shift from wartime austerity. Dior's designs celebrated femininity and opulence, using abundant fabrics after years of rationing. The debut collection drew immediate attention and revitalized the Paris fashion industry. Buyers flocked to select Dior pieces, signaling the return of haute couture as a global cultural force. Critics hailed the elegance and luxury of the garments, while some questioned the extravagance in a recovering Europe. The 'New Look' cemented Dior's reputation as a leading designer and set trends that dominated women's fashion for the next decade.

On February 12, 1994, masked intruders entered the National Gallery in Oslo and overpowered the guards to snatch Edvard Munch's The Scream. The theft stunned the art world and prompted an international manhunt for the priceless expressionist masterpiece. Munch's work, one of the most recognized paintings globally, was valued at millions despite its fame. Security at museums worldwide was scrutinized and enhanced following the brazen raid. The painting was recovered three months later in a sting operation, but the incident underscored vulnerabilities in cultural heritage protection. Conservation experts later restored minor damages sustained during the theft, allowing The Scream to resume its place as a national treasure.