The National Museum in Warsaw is based in an imposing Modernist building and includes an impressive selection of Medieval Arts, pre and post 20th Century Polish Arts and works by foreign painters.

The collection includes works in various different styles - including Romantic, Impressionist and Symbolist - that became popular during the 19th century. The historical works by Jan Metejko including the wonderful, melancholic portrait “Stanczyk” – the Jester painted in 1862 were very striking.

The Medieval Art Galleries contain some extremely impressive and exquisitely carved alter pieces, statues and pieta many from Polish churches which are no longer in existence. The scale, detail and colour in the woodcarving and painted decoration is quite extraordinary. As are the pietas and scenes of the crucifixion, which are quite disturbing in their portrayal of suffering.

Most exhibits are labelled in both Polish and English and some paintings have two or three line explanations of the subject matter.

My one – minor – criticism is that the map/guide we were given was rather confusing and it was hard to find our way around the galleries. However, I think a fuller guide may be available for purchase.

All in all the museum offers an interesting and extensive collection of paintings, sculpture and decorative arts that embraces various styles and trends.

Aleje Jerozolimskie 3
www.mnw.art.pl

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