A portrait of General Henryk Dembiński, completed in 1852, secured the first major professional success for Henryk Rodakowski. This achievement elevated the Lviv-born artist within the Parisian art scene, marking a transition from his formal academic training in Vienna toward a career defined by his work as a portraitist and painter during the nineteenth century.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1823 into a family of lawyers, Rodakowski initially followed legal studies in Vienna between 1841 and 1845. His shift to artistic pursuits led him to study under Joseph Danhauser and Franz Eybl. He subsequently moved to Paris in 1846, where he refined his techniques under the guidance of Léon Cogniet, remaining in France until 1867.
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During his residence in Paris, Rodakowski received visits to his studio from Eugène Delacroix and maintained a friendship with the artist Leon Kaplinski. His professional stature grew, eventually earning him the Legion of Honour. In 1861, he married Kamila Blühdorn, née von Salzgeber, with whom he raised two children. By 1866, he held membership in the Polish Historical and Literary Society in Paris.
Return to Poland and Later Years
After leaving Paris in 1867, Rodakowski returned to Poland, settling first in Pałahicze near Stanisławów before moving to Kraków. Toward the end of his life, he occupied leadership roles in the cultural community, serving as president of the Society of Friends of Fine Arts and chair of the National Museum Committee. On December 24, 1894, he was appointed director of the Kraków Academy of Fine Arts, but he died four days later.
Fast facts
- Born: 1823, Lviv
- Died: 1894, Kraków
- Occupation: Painter and portraitist
- Citizenship: Austrian Empire
- Awards: Legion of Honour
- Burial: Rakowicki Cemetery
- Family: Married Kamila Blühdorn, née von Salzgeber
- Notable descendant: Jacek Woźniakowski
Questions readers ask
Where did Henryk Rodakowski receive his initial art training?
He studied painting in Vienna under Joseph Danhauser and Franz Eybl, followed by further studies in Paris with Léon Cogniet.
What significant administrative position was he offered shortly before his death?
On December 24, 1894, he was nominated to serve as the director of the Kraków Academy of Fine Arts.
Achievements
- Legion of Honour
