Artwork
Portret Marceliny Czartoryskiej z Radziwiłów
Portret Marceliny Czartoryskiej z Radziwiłów is an oil painting by the Realist artist Jan Matejko. It dates from 1874 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Kraków.
About this work
Overview
This 1874 oil painting by Jan Matejko portrays Marcelina Czartoryska (née Radziwiłł) in a somber and dignified manner, deviating from the artist's typical large-scale historical scenes.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, an older woman of nobility, is depicted with a serious expression, conveying a sense of gravity. Her attire—a black dress with white lace collar and black bow—and the inclusion of a book and piano in the background, may allude to her character, interests, or social standing.
Technique & Style
The work exemplifies Realist tendencies, characteristic of 19th-century Polish art. The use of chiaroscuro is notable, enhancing the somber mood through strong contrasts of light and dark, set against a vibrant, floral tapestry backdrop.
History & Provenance
Created in 1874 by Jan Matejko, a prominent Polish history painter, the portrait is now part of the National Museum in Kraków's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jan Alojzy Matejko (Polish pronunciation: ; also known as Jan Mateyko; 24 June 1838 – 1 November 1893) was a Polish painter, a leading 19th-century exponent of history painting, known for depicting nodal events from Polish history.
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