Joseph Tom(1883-1962), Old Town

Lithograph, 29 x 20 cm in light passe - partout, 1930s


Józef Tom (born July 30, 1883 in Warsaw, died November 12, 1962 there) - Polish painter, graphic artist.Graduated from gymnasium in Warsaw. In 1907-1910 he studied with E. Trojanowski at the Warsaw School of Fine Arts. In 1910-1912 and 1914 he continued his studies in Munich and Kunstgewerbeschule in Berlin, and in 1910-1913 he stayed in London. In 1920 he volunteered to serve in the Polish Army. He was the author of the first banknotes and postage stamps after Poland regained its independence, and designed posters, ex-librises, book graphics and book covers. He was a member of the Trade Union of Polish Artists and the Association of Graphic Artists. He exhibited his works in Warsaw's Zachęta Gallery and the Institute of Art Propaganda, as well as in the provinces and abroad.

In 1950-1961 he was a lecturer at the Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts, a professor since 1956. Jozef Tom's most common technique was lithography with architectural motifs. In addition, he created ex-librises, applied graphics and was involved in book decoration. He is the designer of the Otwock coat of arms. He was a member of the Circle of Advertising Graphic Artists.