Knight's head

The work presents a study of a knight in hussar armour. The precisely drawn head contrasts with the sketchily treated fur in the lower part of the work. The whole is coherent and, despite the static pose, quite dynamic. Compared to other graphics in the portfolio, this one is distinguished by the realism of representation and, at first glance, the lack of allegorical references. Other works have a nostalgic expression, illustrating some real or legendary story. However, the figure of the knight has a symbolic meaning, as it refers to the times of Poland's political and military magnificence, to its greatest glories. It should be remembered that Barwicki created when Poland was not on the map of Europe. With his art, he repeatedly expressed his patriotic commitment and love for the enslaved homeland. He was also happy to illustrate legends and fairy tales. Apart from its political meaning, a portrait of a knight can symbolize romantic and unfulfilled love.

Barwicki had many occasions to paint a knight in hussar armour. In 1901, he created the painting Pożegnanie Wacława z Marią [The Farewell to Wacław and Maria] based on a graphic work by Elwiro Andriolli. It was an illustration of the novel Maria by Antoni Malczewski (1797-1826). The painting, now in the collection of the Catholic University of Lublin, depicts a knight in hussar armour saying goodbye to his beloved before going off to war. Unfortunately, after the knight left, his father, not accepting the choice of his son's heart, plotted and strangled the girl. The novel was inspired by a real event.