Polychromies in Duszniki-Zdrój - an Unparalleled Work of Art
These unique Baroque decorations are a source of invaluable knowledge about the life and social status of Duszniki paper makers.
Polychromes in the paper mill in DusznikiMuseum of Papermaking in Duszniki-Zdrój
Sensational discovery
In 1969, on the first floor of the attic of the Duszniki mill building, paintings created probably in the 17th-18th centuries were spotted under a layer of paint.
This type of decoration is unusual for manufacturing buildings. They used to be the representative rooms of the Duszniki paper mills, where guests were received or business deals were made.
Biblical Joseph tempted by Potiphar's wife....
The scene takes place in a bedroom - an alcove is filled with a bed with a canopy and parted curtains. Sitting on the bed, a partially undressed woman extends her hand toward a fleeing man in a red coat. He, however, does not succumb to her charms.
This is the most recognizable scene on the walls of the Duszniki mill. It is an allusive reference to the owner of the paper mill in 1772-1779, Joseph Ossendorf, and leads one to conclude that he was a man of great integrity and not given to temptation.
Illusionist painting covering the walls and ceilings of the representative rooms was intended to optically enlarge the small rooms and add splendor.
In 2009, it was discovered that above one of the ceilings in the polychrome rooms was a second hidden ceiling - also decorated with paintings.
Polychromes in the paper mill in DusznikiMuseum of Papermaking in Duszniki-Zdrój
The entire Duszniki painting decoration, made on wood, was meant to emphasize the social position of the Duszniki paper-makers - creating excellent quality paper, they belonged to the local elite and enjoyed considerable wealth.
