Soter Jaxa-Małachowski (1867 Wolanów - 1952 Kraków), Lake Garda at night, 1919.

oil, canvas, 42 × 58 cm
Signed and dated p. d.: "S Jaxa/1919."

on the loom inscription: "Lago Di Garda at night." and the stickers of the warehouse of painting materials: "Martel" Brand Protective Wood Products Factory in Stryszow.

An important role in the formation of Jaxy-Malachwoski's artistic sensibility was played by his trips to Italy. The artist visited the country in 1905, 1925 and 1928, among others. These trips resulted in a series of works with Mediterranean themes - city views, lagoons, coasts, which differ from his later Baltic landscapes. Jax would return to the memories of his Italian travels many times after his return home. Beautiful Italy provided the artist with both new subjects and a look at light, color. Works from these trips also showed the atmosphere of the place, of which the presented nocturne from 1919 "Lake Garda at Night" is a perfect example. The composition, maintained in cool tones of blues, purples and grays, shows a full moon, whose glow is reflected in the calm surface of the water, creating a delicate, luminous streak. This romantic scene is maintained in a melancholy, reflective mood. The painting conveys an aura of silence and tranquility of the night, and at the same time a certain mood of mystery. The subtle moonlight contrasts with the dark parts of the landscape, emphasizing the play of light and shadow.