Sigismund II Augustus

Matejko is a creator of works on historical themes, a representative of academicism, his work was distinguished by the presentation of history in an innovative manner. The artist's freedom of expression (through his paintings) and his subjective approach to history contributed to the creation of historical paintings which were to shape the national consciousness of his fellow citizens.

The portrait of Sigismund Augustus was made using drawing techniques on paper. It is a realistic sketch which takes into account the individuality of the figure depicted. The subtlety of the drawing includes chiaroscuro nuances giving the clothes and the face a solid character. Matejko is an example of an artist who, admiring the works of his predecessors, drew on their achievements, bringing his own technique to mastery. It is what his wife Teodora said about him: "[...] he already has a lot of notes, but it's all too little for him - complains Teodora - he would do more and more, because he likes everything, and he needs everything, he is insatiable. Sometimes, when I can't get him out of a gallery or museum, I tell him to close his eyes and with a lot of effort I get him out the first better door - and so I run'.

Matejko commemorated an important fact in Polish history - the Union of Lublin of 1569 – with a painting created on the 300th anniversary of this event. Zygmunt August is the main figure of the historical event of signing the act of union in Lublin. He was the last king of the Jagiellonian dynasty, a monarch who shunned wars, a tolerant man.

The great canvas of the master of history painting is presented in the National Museum in Lublin. The central figure is King Zygmunt August holding a cross, which emphasises the role of Providence in this historical event.

Klara Sadkowska