Rare medal struck in 1875 in honor of Jan Matejko (1838–1893) – Poland’s greatest historical painter, renowned for his monumental works depicting the most important events in national history.
Designed by the French engraver Barre, the piece stands as a token of national gratitude, celebrating an artist who – as the inscription proclaims – “adorned the homeland with new glory.”
Medal in original case.
Obverse: Bust of Jan Matejko, right, below, BARRE's signature
JAN MATEJKO
Reverse: In the field, a four-line inscription enclosed in a floral wreath NOWA / CHWAŁĄ / OJCZYZNĘ / PRZYOZDOBIŁ
MALARZOWI HISTORYCZNEMU RODACY, MDCCCLXXV
Diameter 55 mm, weight 68.57 g
