Who painted Self-Prtrait of Franciszek Smuglewicz?

Self-Prtrait of Franciszek Smuglewicz was painted by Józef Peszka in 1809.

Where can I see Self-Prtrait of Franciszek Smuglewicz?

Self-Prtrait of Franciszek Smuglewicz is held by National Museum in Kraków.

Artwork

Self-Prtrait of Franciszek Smuglewicz

Self-Prtrait of Franciszek Smuglewicz is an oil painting by Józef Peszka. It dates from 1809 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Kraków.

About this work

Overview

Józef Peszka’s oil portrait, executed around 1809, presents the artist Franciszek Smuglewicz in a circular format. The work belongs to the portrait genre and is part of the National Museum in Kraków’s collection. Its modest dimensions and restrained composition focus attention on the sitter’s visage and attire.

Subject & Meaning

The painting captures Smuglewicz, a noted figure in Polish art, with light‑gray hair and a sober, dark costume. His expression is serious, suggesting a contemplative or professional demeanor. The subdued palette and lack of ornamental background emphasize the individual’s character rather than narrative context.

Technique & Style

Peszka employs smooth, blended tones to model the face, using soft brushwork that renders flesh subtly. A modest chiaroscuro under the chin creates a sense of volume, while the overall color scheme remains muted. The circular format and delicate handling reflect early‑19th‑century portrait conventions in Poland.

History & Provenance

The portrait bears the inscription “Dar Dr. Fr. Poznański,” indicating it was presented as a gift, likely by the physician to the museum or a related institution. Since its acquisition, the work has remained in the National Museum in Kraków, where it is displayed among other Polish artworks of the period.

Context

Józef Peszka, a professor at the Kraków Academy, was known for both portraiture and watercolor landscapes. This painting aligns with his practice of documenting contemporary artists, offering a visual record of Smuglewicz’s appearance for posterity and illustrating the network of artistic relationships in early‑19th‑century Poland.