Portrait of Helena Paderewska

The walls of Riond-Bosson were decorated with portraits of the Paderewskis, painted by the Swiss painter Charles Giron. Helena, née Rosen, was Ignacy Jan Paderewski’s second wife, with whom he spent almost forty years. Her unique beauty, inherited from her Greek mother, and undeniable charm made her popular in high society. She was married to Władysław Górski, violinist and composer working at the Grand Theatre, until 1898, when the couple managed to annul the marriage. A year later, she and Paderewski took their vows. Throughout her life, Helena supported the musical and political career of her husband, constantly standing by his attempts to reinstate an independent Poland. At the same time, she was involved in charity work, e.g. as the head of the Polish White Cross.