Artwork

Death of Barbara Radziwiłł

Death of Barbara Radziwiłł, by Aleksander Lesser, oil, 1859
Death of Barbara Radziwiłł, by Aleksander Lesser, oil, 1859

Death of Barbara Radziwiłł is an oil painting by the Realist artist Aleksander Lesser. It dates from 1859 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw.

About this work

Overview

The painting 'Death of Barbara Radziwiłł' is an oil on canvas work created by Aleksander Lesser in 1859. It is now held in the National Museum in Warsaw.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts the final moments of Barbara Radziwiłł, a 16th-century Polish queen. She lies in bed surrounded by mourners, including a priest and men in robes, conveying a sense of reverence and mourning.

Technique & Style

Lesser, known for his realistic style, rendered the somber atmosphere through the use of subdued colors and detailed depiction of the figures and their surroundings, including a red curtain and a statue of the Virgin Mary.

History & Provenance

Aleksander Lesser, a Polish painter of Jewish descent, was active in Kraków and Warsaw, contributing to both artistic and scholarly circles. He was also involved in establishing the Zachęta, the Society for Encouragement of the Fine Arts in Warsaw.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Aleksander Lesser

Artist

Aleksander Lesser

Aleksander Lesser (13 May 1814 – 13 March 1884) was a Polish painter, illustrator, sketch artist, art critic, and amateur researcher of antiquities.