Popiersie diabła (Bust of a Devil) by Jan Matejko. An expressive ink and wash study of a horned demon with large pointed ears and its mouth wide open in a shout.

Popiersie diabła (Bust of a Devil)

Jan Matejko

1890 · Medium Not Listed

A striking and expressive 19th-century character study of a devilish figure by Polish master Jan Matejko.

$129

For the selected configuration

From $129

1 frame size

Frame size
Frame color
Mount
Paper type
Glaze

Made to order in ~2 business days · Free U.S. standard shipping (typically 5–8 business days after dispatch)

Where it works

A balanced work with lively energy in a warmer tonal register — sits quietly within a room.

Often works in
Library · Study · Commercial Space
Placement
Works well as a centered vertical note
Walls
Reads clearest against mid or deeper wall tones
Color notes
Soft gray, Soft white

About the piece

Created in 1890 as a preparatory study for the polychromy of St. Mary's Basilica in Kraków, this work showcases Jan Matejko's mastery of expressive line and form. The bust depicts a demon with exaggerated features and an emotive, open-mouthed expression, capturing the theatrical drama of late 19th-century academic draughtsmanship.

More like this

Monk Talking to an Old Woman

Contains disturbing content

Dark Academia

Monk Talking to an Old Woman

Francisco Goya

A haunting and expressive late miniature by Francisco Goya, featuring two figures in dramatic chiaroscuro.