Muse 1897

Józef Mehoffer painted this oil on canvas, called ‘Muse,’ location unspecified. The image presents a figure evocative of classical mythology, but how might we relate this to the socio-political context of Poland? The symbol of the muse is rooted in a classical tradition that European artists had long looked to for inspiration. The National Museum in Warsaw was established in 1862 when Poland did not exist as an independent nation. Looking to a timeless classical past may have offered a potent way of dealing with national identity. The birch trees in the background are a Polish symbol that may give us a clearer picture of this painting’s meaning. To fully appreciate the significance of this painting, we need to understand how it engaged with Polish culture and national identity. Historical resources, such as museum archives and critical reviews from the period, might reveal clues about the painting’s reception and interpretation in its time.