Housed in a former aristocratic residence of the Bieliński family, the Otwock Museum of Interiors is a branch of the National Museum in the Polish capital.
The exhibition features more than 220 works of art and memorabilia relating to Polish pianist, composer and statesman Ignacy Jan Paderewski. They constitute a large part of the donation which he made to the Warsaw National Museum by will in 1930.
As the museum writes on its website, the bequest was an act of patriotism on Paderewski’s part. It recalls that in his last radio address, delivered on September 23, 1940, prior to his departure from Switzerland to the United States, he said: “I have devoted my life to my homeland. I have served it with all my heart and all my strength.”
On display are Paderewski’s state distinctions and medals that document his role in efforts to rebuild Poland as an independent country.
The musical section contains a Steinway & Sons grand piano, commemorative batons and cups with dedications from various symphony orchestras.
There is also a collection of porcelain from China and Japan, the pianist’s travel trunks, his typewriter, a wallet, as well as numerous gifts that he received from friends and organizations in recognition of his talent and political activities.
Paderewski was one of the most outstanding personalities in modern Polish history. A legendary pianist whose unique interpretative style won him audience applause in all corners of the globe, he was also a prominent statesman.
During World War I, he supported Poland’s attempts to regain independence. In 1919, in his role as prime minister and foreign affairs minister, he co-chaired the Polish delegation to the Peace Conference in Paris and signed the Treaty of Versailles.
Paderewski died in the United States in 1941, and was buried at Arlington Military Cemetery in Washington following a decision by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
In 1992, his remains were brought to Poland and buried at St. John’s Cathedral in Warsaw.
(mk/gs)