Battle of Grunwald (detail) 

This detail from Jan Matejko’s monumental painting, *Battle of Grunwald*, depicts the chaotic and bloody reality of 15th-century warfare. The scene is a close-up, showcasing the intensity of the struggle. A fallen warrior lies in the foreground, his face obscured by the chaos around him. A knight, his face grim, wields a sword with determination, while another soldier struggles with a spear. The scene captures the raw energy and brutality of the historical event, highlighting the courage and desperation of those involved. Matejko’s dramatic composition and use of color contribute to the painting’s powerful emotional impact.