InfoPersons, originating from Poland
Jan Matejko
Born 24 June 1838 in KrakówDied 1 November 1893 in Kraków
Famous painter of historical evens. His paintings are often used for the design of stamps, not only in Poland, but also in many other countries, all over the world.
He studied at the School of Fine Arts in Kraków from 1852 to 1858. During this time, he began exhibiting historical paintings. About the year 1864 Matejko started to gain international recognition. In 1865 Matejko's painting "Skarga's Sermon" was awarded a gold medal at the yearly Paris salon; soon afterwards Count Maurycy Potocki bought it for 10,000 guldens. Critics listed Matejko as one of the most important European historical painters. From the Polish perspective, he succeeded in propagating the Polish history, and reminding the world about Poland. In the 19th century the country was partitioned by three surrounding countries and without any independent political representation. The paintng formed a strong mental support for the many Poles that longed for regaining the indepency of their homeland.
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Jan Matejko self portrait 1892
