heliogravure (on paper), with a visible impression of the copperplate, print size 38x25.5 (sheet size 50x38 cm), signed on the plate, bottom right: JMrP1888,printed signature below the composition, left: J. Matejko pinx, right:J. Löwy imp.,
The print is part of the monumental and highly prized by collectors series “The History of Civilization in Poland,” consisting of 12 historical compositions designed by Jan Matejko toward the end of his life.
The print on display depicts a symbolic, highly dramatic scene following the tragic Battle of Legnica (1241), in which Prince Henry II the Pious was killed by the Mongols. Matejko sets the scene inside a sacred space—a nation in deep mourning gathers around the bodies of the fallen knights. Amid the candles and banners, one can see, among others, the prince’s mother, St. Hedwig of Silesia, and his widow, Anna of Przemyśl. Despite the tragedy of the defeat, the work conveys a powerful message of the Renaissance—the consolidation of spiritual and national strength in the face of danger.
