Artwork

Portrait of Władysław Łubieński (1703–1767), Archbishop of Gniezno and the Primate of Poland

Portrait of Władysław Łubieński (1703–1767), Archbishop of Gniezno and the Primate of Poland is an oil painting by Unknown. It dates from 1762 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Kraków. The oil painting depicts Władysław Łubieński (1703–1767), who served as Archbishop of Gniezno and Primate of Poland.

About this work

Overview

The oil painting depicts Władysław Łubieński (1703–1767), who served as Archbishop of Gniezno and Primate of Poland. He is shown in formal ecclesiastical dress, standing before a darkened backdrop that hints at a chair. The portrait presents him with a direct, solemn gaze toward the viewer.

Subject & Meaning

Łubieński is rendered in a vivid red robe trimmed with a blue sash, a gold cross hanging at his chest, and a white lace cuff at his wrist. Holding a quill pen, he embodies both his religious authority and his role in ecclesiastical administration, while the serious expression underscores the gravitas of his office.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil on canvas, the work displays visible brushwork that gives texture to the fabrics and the subject’s powdered hair, styled in the fashion of the early eighteenth century. The dark background isolates the figure, allowing the rich colors of the robe and sash to stand out, while subtle modeling creates a three‑dimensional presence.

History & Provenance

The portrait was created during Łubieński’s lifetime, likely commissioned to commemorate his tenure as Primate. Its later ownership has remained within Polish ecclesiastical collections, where it continues to serve as a visual record of a prominent church leader of the era.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Museum

National Museum in Kraków

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