Costume Studies for the Figure of Sigismund II Augustus in the Painting ‘Death of Barbara Radziwiłł’ 1860

Józef Simmler created these costume studies for the figure of Sigismund II Augustus, using pencil on paper, as part of his preparatory work for the painting 'Death of Barbara Radziwiłł.’ Simmler lived and worked during a period when Poland was partitioned and controlled by foreign powers. As such, historical paintings served as reminders of Poland's past greatness and were often veiled commentaries on the contemporary political situation. Sigismund II Augustus, who secretly married Barbara Radziwiłł against the wishes of his family and court, was a popular, and controversial, figure in Polish history. In Simmler’s time, he symbolized both romantic love and political defiance. Here, the sketches of Sigismund’s costume invite us to consider how clothing can construct identity, communicate power, and express emotions. The somber color palette and the king’s mournful posture reflect Simmler’s desire to capture the personal grief of a powerful ruler. The image reminds us that even those in positions of authority are subject to the same profound human experiences as the rest of us.