Jan Krzysztof Damel
Polish neoclassical historical painter
Jan Krzysztof Damel, also known as Jonas Damelis and Johann Damehl in other languages was a Polish neoclassicist artist in the age of Partitions, associated with the School of Art at Vilnius University (modern-day Lithuania). Born in Mitau, Duchy of Courland and Semigallia (now Jelgava, Latvia, 1918 name change), Damel (Damelis) studied art at Vilna University under Jan Rustem and Franciszek Smuglewicz, receiving a degree in 1809. He lived in Vilnius (Wilno) until he was deported to Siberia in 1820. Upon his release he lived in St. Petersburg and Minsk. He is considered one of the most prominent historical artists of the neoclassicist genre working in present-day Belarus. His works include paintings of historic events (the Kościuszko Uprising, Napoleon's army in Vilnius, the death of Ulrich von Jungingen during the Battle of Grunwald, and the Battle of Vienna), portraits, drawings, and religious compositions. Among his successful students was Michał Kulesza.
Relationship Network
Master student
- Jan Rustem Master
Artworks by this artist
- Portrait of John O’Connor (1760-1802), professor at the University of Vilnius circa 1812
- Designs for boards with drawings of tree species and tree leaves, on both sides
- Portrait of Maria Anna Rawicz (1807–1887) with her son Jaś circa 1834
- Portrait of a priest circa 1800
- Self-portrait 1828
- Study of an oak
- Retreat of Napoleon’s army
- Kościuszko wounded in the Battle of Maciejowice 1812-1813
- King John III Sobieski meets emperor Leopold at Vienna
- Study of meadow plants