Dimensions: 73 x 27.5 cm
Signed p.d.: 'Bakalowicz'
Origin
DESA Unicum, April 2014
private collection, Poland
Biography
Son of painter Władysław Bakałowicz. He took his first painting lessons at the Warsaw Drawing Class. In 1874-76, he continued his studies in the private studio of Wojciech Gerson. During his studies at the St. Petersburg Academy in 1876-82, he was awarded silver and gold medals several times. After graduation, he went to Rome on a scholarship and settled there permanently. He remained in cordial relations with Henryk Siemiradzki, also a Roman by choice. For the works he sent from Rome, he was awarded the title of academician in history painting in 1886. His specialty was small genre compositions set in ancient scenery, often with anecdotal overtones. He drew themes from, among others, Quo vadis? H. Sienkiewicz. Later, he also painted landscapes and, after a trip to Egypt in 1903, oriental scenes. He was a good portraitist. Bakalovich's paintings, maintained in an academic manner, betray a good mastery of the workshop, and are characterized by skilful drawing, vivid coloring and a taste for detail. He exhibited in Rome, Warsaw and Russia, where his works were in high demand.
