Unveiling the Royal Łazienki Museum's Biały Dom: An 18th-Century Maison de Plaisance Educational Series

This series of meetings explores the history, decor, and inhabitants of the White House at the Royal Łazienki Museum, framed as a "maison de plaisance" or a place for pleasant leisure. It delves into 18th-century concepts of leisurely retreats and their realization in architecture and symbolism.

This series of educational meetings, targeting youth (16+) and adults, focuses on the White House (Biały Dom) at the Royal Łazienki Museum, viewing it as an "maison de plaisance"—a place for pleasant spending of time away from courtly ceremony, as envisioned by King Stanisław August. The cycle consists of three distinct sessions: on July 20th, August 3rd, and August 17th, 2023. The first session, "Biały Dom jako _maison de plaisance_," examines the concept of such leisurely villas in the 18th century, comparing examples from France, Prussia, and Russia with the Łazienki property. It will discuss the 18th-century surroundings and interior of the White House and what made it a pleasant place. The second session, "Mieszkańcy Białego Domu," discusses how the White House became a summer residence and who lived there, including the king, his sisters, sister-in-law, and an ambassador, as well as significant events that took place there after Stanisław August's death. The third session, "Marzenie o państwie idealnym," explores the symbolic meaning of the White House's location and interior design, reflecting ideals of wise governance and citizen happiness. It also touches upon the King's 'Thursday Dinners,' their attendees, and the tableware and food served, connecting these to the idea of a "maison de plaisance" while acknowledging that sad events also transpired there.

Admission to these meetings is free under the 'Kultura Dostępna' program from the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage. Registration is required via email to [email protected], as the number of places is limited. The White House itself, on its ground floor, is accessible for wheelchair users, with a lift available before entry and wheelchairs/stools provided on-site.