Antoni Oleszczynski (1794-1879) Medallion of Sigismund II Augustus (obverse), Poznan ca. 1865.

The composition depicts a circular medallion centrally framed on a bright paper background. Inside it is a profile bust of a man facing right, with clearly defined facial features. The figure is dressed in an antique stylized outfit with a draped cloak, wearing a royal crown on his head. The medallion is surrounded by a wide band with a Latin inscription running around the portrait: "Sigismund Augustus King of Poland." The outer surround is decorated with a laurel wreath motif.

Steel engraving.
Size 29,5 x 24
Condition as in photos
The featured intaglio by Antoni Oleszczynski is a 19th century interpretation of a Renaissance royal medallion depicting Sigismund II Augustus. Oleszczynski, one of the most prominent Polish engravers of the era, specialized in reproductions of works of historical significance, contributing to the popularization of national iconography in the era of the Partitions.
The medallion's prototype was probably created in the mid-16th century (circa 1557) and belonged to the representative forms of commemorating the ruler, combining propaganda and artistic functions. The reverse of the original featured rich heraldic representations - the Eagle of the Crown of the Kingdom of Poland and the coats of arms of the dynasties and lands of the Republic - which emphasized the universalist nature of the Jagiellonian monarchy.
Graphic reproductions of such medallions appeared in important publications of the 19th century, including monumental publications documenting the history of Poland and its numismatic heritage. Oleszczynski's engravings are an important link in this process - they combine high workshop quality with scientific ambition to faithfully reproduce the historical design.
The object is part of the current of 19th-century collecting and interest in the national past, being at the same time an example of excellent intaglio technique and a testimony to the reception of Renaissance art in the modern era.
Antoni Oleszczynski was one of the most outstanding Polish engravers and printmakers of the 19th century, respected both at home and in exile. He was born in 1794 in Krasnystaw and died in 1879 in Paris, where he spent much of his creative life. He gained his early artistic training in Warsaw, where he studied drawing and printmaking. Soon, however, he traveled abroad, continuing his studies in the artistic centers of Europe, above all in Paris, which at the time was one of the most important centers of graphic art. There he perfected engraving techniques, especially intaglio, achieving a high level of precision and workshop virtuosity.
Oleszczyński became famous as a creator of numerous reproduction engravings, portraits and historical representations. His oeuvre includes images of prominent historical figures, scenes of a patriotic nature and illustrations for publications on national themes. Works documenting Poland's cultural heritage - including medallions, royal portraits and illustrations for historical and numismatic publications - occupy a special place. The artist collaborated with leading publishers and participated in the realization of prestigious editorial projects aimed at recording and popularizing Polish history during the partition period. His engravings are characterized by exceptional attention to detail, subtle handling of chiaroscuro and high compositional culture.
Oleszczyński's work should be seen not only in artistic terms, but also as an important element of patriotic activity. At a time when Poland did not exist as a state, his works contributed to maintaining national consciousness and popularizing historical iconography. Today, Antoni Oleszczyński's works can be found in museum and library collections, providing an important testimony to the development of 19th century printmaking and a visual documentation of Poland's cultural heritage.