Maria Woźniakowska, Artist's Daughter 1891

Henryk Rodakowski made this portrait of his daughter, Maria Woźniakowska, using oil paints on canvas. Oil paint, made from pigment mixed with oil, allows for rich colors and smooth blending, techniques mastered through years of apprenticeship. The artist's skillful handling of the oil medium creates a palpable sense of texture, seen especially in the contrast between the velvety black shawl, and the delicate, almost translucent fabric of Maria's dress. The layering and blending of paint give depth to her skin, and capture the soft light on her face. Rodakowski's academic style reflects the traditions of fine art, where technical skill and realistic representation were highly valued. But the labor-intensive process of oil painting also connects it to the world of craft, where careful attention to materials and technique is paramount. The final image reflects not only the artist's skill, but also the social and economic status of the sitter, and the cultural values of the time. By emphasizing these elements, we can better appreciate the relationship between art, labor, and society.