Sleeves of King’s Attire. Study to the Painting ‘The Death of Barbara Radziwiłł’ before 1860

Józef Simmler, a Polish artist, painted 'Sleeves of King's Attire. Study to the Painting ‘The Death of Barbara Radziwiłł’', though the exact date remains unknown. Born in the 19th century during a time of national partitions and struggles for independence, Simmler's work is deeply embedded in Poland's history. This study offers an intimate glimpse into the opulence surrounding royalty, yet it hints at the sorrowful narrative of Barbara Radziwiłł’s death. Consider how fashion and attire have historically signified power and status. The sleeves, rendered with such attention to detail, speak volumes about the King's position and the expectations placed upon him. Simmler’s choice to focus on this detail invites us to reflect on the relationship between power, grief, and personal identity. How might the weight of the crown and societal expectations impact one's ability to mourn and express vulnerability? This piece shapes a dialogue between the public role and the private emotions of historical figures.