Artwork
Portrait of Mr. Świdziński
Portrait of Mr. Świdziński is an oil painting by the Realist artist Rafał Hadziewicz. It dates from 1853 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw.
About this work
Overview
Created circa 1853, the oil portrait by Polish artist Rafał Hadziewicz captures an elderly gentleman in a half‑length format. The work is part of the National Museum in Warsaw’s holdings and exemplifies the realist approach that characterized Hadziewicz’s output in the mid‑nineteenth century.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter is presented from the chest upward, his white beard and hair contrasting with a red hat and dark robe. A simple gold pendant rests at his throat, and his neutral gaze suggests a dignified, contemplative presence rather than a narrative scene.
Technique & Style
Hadziewicz employs chiaroscuro, balancing luminous highlights on the face and clothing against a deep, shadowed background. This contrast creates a three‑dimensional sense of form, emphasizing the texture of the beard and the folds of the robe while directing the viewer’s focus to the subject’s expression.
History & Provenance
The portrait entered the National Museum in Warsaw’s collection, where it remains on display. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s commitment to preserving works by leading Polish realist painters of the 19th century, offering insight into the period’s portraiture conventions.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Rafał Hadziewicz (13 October 1803 – 7 September 1883) was a Polish painter; primarily of portraits and religious works, and an expert on ancient culture.
Portrait of an Old Man
Bildnis eines alten Mannes (Kopie nach)
Gelehrter
Portrait of Roberto Castiglione
Old man looking to the right
Old man turned to the left
Old Man in Fanciful Costume Holding a Stick
Alter Mann
Cap de bărbat
Portrait of a Bearded Old Man
Portrait of Jean-Étienne Liotard at approximately 54 years of age (Self Portrait in Turkish Costume)
Portrait of Burgomaster