Year 1863 - Polonia

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "Year 1863 - Polonia", originally brought to life by the talented Jan Matejko. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to Jan Matejko and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

"Polonia" (1863), also known as "Polonia (1863) – Widmo wojny" (Polonia (1863) – The Spectre of War), is a monumental painting by the renowned Polish artist Jan Matejko, completed in the aftermath of the January Uprising against the Russian Empire. This work stands as a poignant allegory of Poland's tragic situation after the failed insurrection, reflecting the artist's deep nationalistic sentiments and his despair over the country's partitioned state. Measuring 156 x 232 cm, it is one of Matejko's most evocative historical paintings, currently housed in the Sukiennice Museum, part of the National Museum in Kraków, Poland.

Created during a period of intense personal and national turmoil, "Polonia" is a masterful expression of Matejko's artistic and political convictions. The painting depicts a desolate scene filled with symbols of Poland's glorious past and its then-present suffering under foreign domination. Central to the composition is the figure of Polonia, a personification of Poland, appearing as a grief-stricken woman amidst the ruins and bound in chains, surrounded by various figures that represent different aspects of Polish society and its cultural heritage, all in mourning or in states of despair.

The work is rich in allegorical content and historical references, including objects and characters that symbolize the loss of freedom, the Catholic faith, and the hope for resurrection. Notable elements include broken weapons, a destroyed book symbolizing the suppression of Polish culture and language, and the figure of a child clutching a crucifix, embodying the future hope for Poland's rebirth.

"Polonia" was painted during a time when Matejko had temporarily abandoned his historical narrative paintings to focus on works that commented on contemporary events. This painting, in particular, serves as a testament to the artist's skill in conveying complex national narratives through rich symbolism and emotional depth. It has been interpreted as both a mourning piece for a nation lost and a subtle call to resistance against the oppressors.

As one of Matejko's most significant works, "Polonia" has been extensively analyzed in the context of Polish art history and remains a powerful symbol of Poland's struggle for independence and identity. The painting's enduring relevance is reflected in its influence on Polish culture and its status as an iconic representation of the nation's unbreakable spirit.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.