Jan Kochanowski over the dead body of his daughter 1862

Jan Matejko's 1862 painting, "Jan Kochanowski over the dead body of his daughter", is a poignant depiction of the Polish poet, Jan Kochanowski, grieving over the death of his young daughter, Ursula. Known for his historical and nationalistic themes, Matejko uses somber tones and a melancholic composition to convey Kochanowski's deep sorrow. The scene, illuminated by a single candle, captures the intimacy of grief, a testament to the human experience of loss. The painting is a moving tribute to both the poet and the universality of fatherly love.