Stanczyk

Jan Matejko

Item Number: 29566

$

In addition to being a historical painting, Jan Matejko's Stanczyk During a Ball at the Court of Queen Bona After the Loss of Smolensk is a profound reflection on solitude, national tragedy, and the w...

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Features “Stanczyk” by Jan Matejko
Main Features
Author
Color
Red, Dark Green, Black, Brown, White, Beige, Yellow, Gold
Tags
Stańczyk, Jan Matejko, Polish Art, Melancholy, Dark Tones, Renaissance, Famous Painting, Sad Clown, Political Commentary
Main Features
Alternate Titles
Stanczyk In Reflection
Art Movement
Historical Realism
Historical Events
Loss Of Smolensk, Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth
Visual and Stylistic Elements
Brushwork/Texture
Smooth And Defined
Focal Point
Stanczyk’s Face
Light Source
Artificial Candlelight
Objects
Jester , Chair , Table , Documents , Candle , Curtain , Window , People In The Background , Carpet
Orientation
Horizontal
Perspective
Dramatic Perspective
Original Masterpiece Features
Condition/Restoration History
Minimal Restoration
Creation Process
Oil On Canvas
Inscriptions/Signatures
Signed By Matejko
Patron/Commissioner
Unknown
Provenance
National Museum, Warsaw
Influences and Related Works
Influences
Polish History, Romanticism
Related Works
Rejtan, Or The Fall Of Poland
Exhibition and Market Information
Auction Price
Not For Sale
Criticism & Reception
Regarded As One Of Matejko’s Greatest Works
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes Polish National Identity
Current Owner
National Museum, Warsaw
Exhibition History
National Museum, Warsaw
Insurance Value
Priceless
Market Trends
High Demand
Public Domain Status
Public Domain
Reproductions
Highly Reproduced
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Description “Stanczyk” by Jan Matejko

In addition to being a historical painting, Jan Matejko's Stanczyk During a Ball at the Court of Queen Bona After the Loss of Smolensk is a profound reflection on solitude, national tragedy, and the weight of foresight. This piece, which was created in 1862, is among Matejko's most psychologically charged pieces since it depicts a unique instance of intense reflection rather than action.

Sitting in the composition's centre is Stanczyk, the famous court jester of Polish kings. He is depicted slouching in a chair, lost in thought, in contrast to the traditional portrayal of jesters as carefree entertainers. His bright red attire contrasts with the dark surroundings, but his demeanour betrays defeat rather than joy. At his feet lies a crumpled letter that probably contains the news of Smolensk's defeat by the Grand Duchy of Moscow in 1514, which was a crucial setback for the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

In stark contrast, the background reveals the grandeur of the royal court, where nobles and dignitaries enjoy the evening without concern. The revellers' detachment from Stanczyk's misery heightens the painting's emotional effect. The court continues its celebrations, oblivious to the geopolitical consequences of Smolensk's capture, while Stanczyk bears the burden of this national calamity.


Reviews “Stanczyk” by Jan Matejko

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Additional Information “Stanczyk” by Jan Matejko

“Matejko painted the conscience of Poland.” Agnieszka Morawinska

“Only the fool sees the truth.” Jan Ostrowski

“Laughter dies in the face of tragedy.” Marek Rostworowski

“Stanczyk mourns while Poland dances.” Waldemar Okon

“The jester carries the weight of history.” Maria Poprzecka

#1. Court Jester. Stanczyk was the famous jester at the Polish royal court.

#2. National Tragedy. The jester broods while the court celebrates, aware of coming disaster.

#3. Polish Symbol. The painting became a symbol of Polish national consciousness.

#4. Prophetic Vision. Only the fool sees the truth the powerful ignore.

#5. Historical Painter. Matejko was Poland's greatest historical painter.


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