Jacek MALCZEWSKI (1854 - 1929), Portrait of a man

oil, cardboard; 49 x 54 cm;
signed p. d.: JMalczewski
On the reverse, oil sketch of a male portrait

Provenance:
private collection, Poland

Jacek Malczewski has many portrait compositions to his credit, including elaborate genre scenes or self-portraits. His typical figure studies were characterized by realistic rendering of physiognomy, with fantastic-mythological phantoms in the background accompanying the portrayed, carrying a metaphorical message. Often these were dynamic compositions with a rich narrative.
The described work is a unique example of this subject matter. It is distinguished by its deep mood of reverie and static depiction of figures. The man depicted in the interior is the only protagonist of the work. The thoroughly realistic depiction of the scene, although devoid of symbolic references, enhances the existential message of the work. The old man's poignant gaze prompts reflection on transience, while the contrast of juicy green and dappled dark colors completes the composition. The motif of old age and transience has been eagerly analyzed by painters. It also fits in with the characteristic stylistics of Young Poland. This work brilliantly conveys not only the mental state of the model, the artist's excellent technique, but also shows versatility in the construction of the classical motif. It represents an interesting collector's extension of his oeuvre.