Portrait of Juliusz Słowacki

Wacław Szymanowski’s sculpture *Portrait of Juliusz Słowacki* depicts the Polish poet seated, draped in ample folds of clothing, with one hand resting thoughtfully on his forehead. The main elements of the composition are the expressive face and the dramatic cascade of the figure’s robes. The sculpture is made of dark, matt bronze. The surface of the sculpture features shades of dark green patina, blue and bronze. Light falls on the eyebrows, nose and the ridges of the drapery folds, whilst deep shadows emphasise the recesses, lending the sculpture significant depth. The lines are mostly curvilinear and fluid, particularly in the voluminous drapery, yet precise lines define the facial features and delicate fingers. The texture is varied, ranging from the smooth, cool surface of the bronze, which reflects the light, to the rougher, organic texture of the fabric folds.