Retaking of Rus. Wealth and Education, 1366 AD, from the series “History of Civilization in Poland” 1888

Curator: Matejko’s "Retaking of Rus. Wealth and Education, 1366 AD" from his series "History of Civilization in Poland" is an oil painting that really overwhelms with its scale and detail. What strikes you most about this piece? Editor: I am interested in the wooden scaffolding dominating the center; it appears like a rudimentary crane or construction site right in the middle of the city square, juxtaposed with more ornate religious figures and a backdrop that’s bursting with life. What do you see in that position, making it stand out, so bold? Curator: It is very tempting to view that scaffolding as a deliberate signifier of labor, quite a literal one. It isn't mere backdrop, and certainly, its material presence is more prominent than a typical symbol. Matejko highlights the means of production—the literal building blocks—within this grand narrative. Notice how its rough-hewn construction contrasts with the supposed wealth and education being "retaken." Who is truly benefiting from these "riches", would you guess? Editor: I guess the question, like, "Who built this thing?" It almost seems that those participating in that ceremony may have enjoyed its end result but may have been removed from its making. Is Matejko, through his intense and labored depiction, saying something critical of the relationship between those who produce wealth versus those who celebrate or inherit it? Curator: Precisely! Look at the arrangement of bodies here too - we can analyze their consumption in its most literal sense. What’s being done with those barrels? Editor: Okay I see it; some material or fluid is clearly being transferred. The rough garments of those involved contrasts sharply with the regal attire. Curator: So we have a flow of resources that's carefully illustrated here, drawing focus to social labor; how does understanding this lens of production affect our comprehension of Polish "wealth and education" in 1366 AD and beyond? Editor: This definitely makes the image more challenging. You are right, this reframing encourages a focus not on national pride but instead toward something grounded in practical economic realities. Thank you. Curator: I also came to this artwork with assumptions of grandeur, I find I now question its romantic aesthetic entirely!