Fragment of the Cover of Quinn’s Bed. Study to the Painting ‘The Death of Barbara Radziwiłł’ — History & Facts
In Fragment of the Cover of Quinn’s Bed, Józef Simmler employs a rich palette of deep reds, browns, and golds. The composition features a dramatic scene with figures in historical attire, suggesting a moment of tension or sorrow. The setting appears to be an interior space, possibly a chamber, adorned with opulent fabrics and furnishings.
The use of light and shadow adds depth, enhancing the emotional weight of the scene. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a common medium for the Romantic period. Simmler’s brushwork is visible, with visible strokes that create texture and movement within the fabric and figures. The dimensions are approximately 60 x 80 cm, making it a medium-sized work that invites close inspection.
The artist’s attention to detail is evident in the intricate patterns of the clothing and the expressions of the figures. Józef Simmler was a Polish artist known for his historical and genre paintings. This particular study is connected to his larger work, The Death of Barbara Radziwiłł, which depicts a significant moment in Polish history. An interesting fact about this piece is that it serves as a preparatory study, showcasing Simmler's process and his exploration of composition and color before executing the final painting.
More Artworks by Józef Simmler

Man resting on a bed
Józef Simmler

Mountain landscape
Józef Simmler

Nude studies for the figures of Jaśko of Tęczyn and the man standing behind him for the painting ‘Queen Jadwiga’s Oath’
Józef Simmler

Half-length figure of a boy in profile to the left
Józef Simmler

Half-length figure of young man in a hat
Józef Simmler

Sketch of a nude male
Józef Simmler

Studium rzeźby ‘Wenus Medycejska’
Józef Simmler

Study of Both Hands of the Bishop for the Painting ‘The Oath of Queen Jadwiga’
Józef Simmler

Study of female nudes to figures of three Marys for the painting ‘Three Marys’
Józef Simmler

Nude male study to the painting ‘King David playing the harp’
Józef Simmler






