Warsaw
Permanent collection

Discover the Grand Monument of King John III Sobieski at Royal Łazienki Museum

This prominent equestrian sculpture by André Le Brun commemorates the historic victory at Vienna in 1788.

The Monument of John III Sobieski stands as a significant historical artwork within the Royal Łazienki Museum grounds. Designed by André Le Brun and executed by Franciszek Pinck, it depicts King John III Sobieski triumphantly on horseback. This Baroque-inspired equestrian statue serves as a striking focal point, reflecting Polish history and royal patronage.

About Monument of John III Sobieski at Royal Łazienki Museum in Warsaw

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Monument of John III Sobieski at Royal Łazienki Museum in Warsaw

Exhibition summary

This monument depicts King John III Sobieski on a rearing horse, trampling two fallen Turks. Sobieski is clad in the attire of a Roman soldier, with a baton raised in his hand. Designed by André Le Brun and executed by Franciszek Pinck, it was unveiled on September 14, 1788.

Curatorial context

The Monument of John III Sobieski, designed by court sculptor André Le Brun and executed by Franciszek Pinck, depicts the king in the guise of a Roman soldier atop a rearing horse, crushing two defeated Turkish figures. Positioned along the axis of the Palace on the Isle, it serves as a northern focal point from the windows of the Salomon Room. The monument draws inspiration from Baroque equestrian sculptures, including the monument to Sobieski in Wilanów and Gian Lorenzo Bernini's equestrian statue of Louis XIV. It is a singular free-standing monument commissioned by Stanisław August, and the second such in Warsaw after Sigismund's Column. The monument was solemnly unveiled on September 14, 1788, marking the 105th anniversary of the victory at Vienna. King Stanisław August held deep respect for John III, but the monument also served as anti-Turkish propaganda. Its erection coincided with the outbreak of the Ottoman–Russian War in 1787, and Stanisław August intended to strengthen relations with Catherine II by contributing troops, thereby securing Poland against further partitions.

Monument of John III Sobieski key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Monument of John III Sobieski at Royal Łazienki Museum in Warsaw

Venue
Royal Łazienki Museum
Current status
Permanent collection
Exhibition schedule
Permanent display (no announced closing date)
Artist line / attribution
Designed by André Le Brun and executed by Franciszek Pinck.
More from Royal Łazienki Museum
Explore additional exhibitions from the same institution
Review other exhibitions from Royal Łazienki Museum in Warsaw to compare themes, timelines, and program direction while planning your museum visit.
Watercolor illustration of a neoclassical interior in The White House villa at Royal Łazienki Museum, featuring purple grotesque wall paintings, period furniture, and a chandelier.
Permanent exhibition

The White House at the Royal Łazienki Museum

A historic royal villa featuring eighteenth-century interiors and art.

Explore a summer residence built for King Stanisław August, notable for its intricate grotesque ornamentation and restored period spaces. The site highlights eighteenth-century architecture alongside the Royal Collection of Graphics.

The White House
The Monument to Cyprian Kamil Norwid in Warsaw: Honoring a Polish Literary Figure
Permanent exhibition

The Monument to Cyprian Kamil Norwid in Warsaw: Honoring a Polish Literary Figure

Explore Julia Keilowa's iconic sculpture of the esteemed poet.

Discover Warsaw's first monument dedicated to Cyprian Kamil Norwid, the influential Polish poet. This stone replica of Julia Keilowa's sculpture captures Norwid's thoughtful essence, reflecting his enduring cultural impact. Explore its artistic details and historical context.

Norwid Monument
Monument of Stanisław August: Permanent Royal Sculpture at Royal Łazienki Museum
Permanent exhibition

Monument of Stanisław August: Permanent Royal Sculpture at Royal Łazienki Museum

Discover 18th-century Polish art and royal symbolism through this bronze bust.

This enduring monument features André Le Brun's 1784 bronze bust of King Stanisław August, masterfully cast by Edward Śluzek. Located in Royal Łazienki Park, it permanently displays the king in armor, symbolizing his role as a protector of his nation. Explore this significant piece of Polish art and royal history.

View Monument
Madonna Enthroned with Child by Carracci at Royal Łazienki Museum
Permanent exhibition

Madonna Enthroned with Child by Carracci at Royal Łazienki Museum

A 17th-century Italian Baroque oil painting on copper.

This Baroque masterpiece by Ludovico Carracci depicts the Madonna and Child surrounded by various saints. Acquired by King Stanisław August Poniatowski in 1781, it is a significant part of the Royal Łazienki Museum's collection.

View Exhibition
Fryderyk Chopin Monument: Iconic Bronze Sculpture in Warsaw's Royal Łazienki Park
Permanent exhibition

Fryderyk Chopin Monument: Iconic Bronze Sculpture in Warsaw's Royal Łazienki Park

Wacław Szymanowski's masterpiece depicting a composer's inspiration.

This enduring monument in Warsaw's Royal Łazienki Park symbolizes Polish cultural resilience. Experience the powerful depiction of Fryderyk Chopin, a musician finding inspiration under a beautiful weeping willow tree. Reconstructed in 1958, it remains a globally recognized public artwork.

Chopin Monument
Discover Marcello Bacciarelli's "Old Man in a Brown Robe" at Royal Łazienki Museum
Permanent exhibition

Discover Marcello Bacciarelli's "Old Man in a Brown Robe" at Royal Łazienki Museum

An 18th-century oil painting and compelling character study.

This captivating oil on canvas artwork, created before 1783, is a notable piece within the museum's permanent collection. It portrays a character type, possibly serving as a study for a grander historical work or a portrait of a prominent individual.

Artwork Details
Warsaw

Discover What's On: Find Current Exhibitions Across Warsaw's Cultural Scene

Explore diverse art, historical displays, and cultural shows in the capital.

Seamlessly browse through an array of captivating exhibitions throughout Warsaw. Easily pinpoint your next cultural adventure, from major art installations to insightful historical presentations. Find new and inspiring displays to enrich your visit.