Paper

Student Artwork Guide

Daturas

Name Class Date

Kazimierz Stabrowski, Daturas (1900), Lithuanian Art Fund. Public domain. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Kazimierz Stabrowski originaluniqueart.com/en/artists/kazimierz-stabrowski/
Artist’s dates
1869 – 1929
Painted
1900
Medium
Pastel Sticks of almost pure pigment drawn straight onto paper; the colour is bright but rubs off easily.
Original size
47 x 63 cm
Movement
Symbolism Pictures where objects stand for ideas — a flower or a door meaning something beyond itself.
Period
19th Century
Held at
Lithuanian Art Fund originaluniqueart.com/en/museums/lithuanian-art-fund-vilnius/
Artistic style
Symbolism and Romanticism
Notable elements or techniques
Vibrant colors, organic, sketchy texture
Subject or theme
Flowers and Lithuanian manor culture

In context

Daturas — Kazimierz Stabrowski

How big is it?

The original measures 47 × 63 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1860
  2. 1870
  3. 1880
  4. 1890
  5. 1900
  6. 1910
  7. 1920

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 60 at death.

Painted when the artist was 31. The artist lived to 60. 2 of the 28 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Kazimierz Stabrowski (1869–1929) ▲ this work, 1900 every dated painting, decade by decade

First works: up to 1900 Main working years: 1900–1913 Late works: from 1913

Those three bands split the works this catalogue has a date for into a first quarter, a middle half and a last quarter. They are not the artist’s complete output: a thin stretch may be a gap in the record rather than a quiet spell. The same years with the artist’s life laid along them

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: originaluniqueart.com/en/art/similar/kazimierz-stabrowski-daturas-D8CVX5-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Celadon #bfc1b9

    Catalogued palette

    • #BFC1B9
    • #5D5E50
    • #A6937E
    • #A7A79D

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Neutrals The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Celadon
    Intensity
    Balanced How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Serene How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Balanced Harmony How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Brilliant How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Muted How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Kazimierz Stabrowski over the last twelve months — 2 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 91.7%
    2. 2 United States of America 8.3%

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 10 most looked-at works by Kazimierz Stabrowski

    1. 1 Daturas, 1900 this painting 16.7%
    2. 2 Spirit of the mountains, 1927 16.7%
    3. 3 The Banana forest, from the Canary collection, 1913 8.3%
    4. 4 Rome. Fontana Dei Cavalli Marini, 1911 8.3%
    5. 5 Guanti grotto in Tenerife, from the Canary collection, 1911 8.3%
    6. 6 Rocca Imperiale town at dusk, 1900 8.3%
    7. 7 Flowers, 1800 8.3%
    8. 8 Mountain landscape, 1911 8.3%
    9. 9 Trees, 1895 8.3%
    10. 10 Colosseum in the Moonlight, 1928 8.3%

    Together these works take 99.8% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 29 works by this artist, of which 10 were looked at at least once. This painting ranks 1 of them, with 16.7% of that attention. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    About this artwork

    Daturas — Kazimierz Stabrowski

    A Symphony of Pastel Petals

    In the delicate, ephemeral strokes of Kazimierz Stabrowski’s "Daturas," we find ourselves transported to the turn of the 20th century, an era where the boundaries between reality and dream began to blur. This exquisite pastel work is far more than a mere botanical study; it is a vibrant, breathing testament to the vitality of nature. The composition unfolds with an organic, almost spontaneous energy, capturing the essence of the Datura flower in all its sprawling glory. Each blossom, rendered with a masterful touch, seems to pulse with life against the soft, textured backdrop. The artist utilizes the unique properties of pastel to create a sense of depth and luminosity, where the brilliant whites and subtle nuances of color dance across the surface, inviting the viewer to linger on every petal and leaf.

    The technique employed by Stabrowski reveals a profound understanding of light and texture. By utilizing a slightly sketchy, impressionistic approach, he avoids the rigidity of scientific illustration, opting instead to convey the impression of the plant's movement and spirit. The interplay of light across the various sizes and shapes of the flowers creates a rhythmic visual melody, where at least thirteen distinct blooms emerge from the canvas, each possessing its own unique character. This soft-focus, tactile quality makes the artwork feel incredibly intimate, as if one is leaning in to catch the faint, nocturnal scent of these famous blossoms.

    Symbolism and the Spirit of an Era

    To understand "Daturas," one must look toward the cultural landscape of early 20th-century Lithuania and Poland. During this period, the cultivation of Daturas was a mark of elegance in manor houses, representing a connection to both botanical beauty and the refined lifestyle of the landed gentry. Stabrowski, a master of the Symbolist movement, imbues these flowers with a deeper, more spiritual resonance. The white blossoms, often associated with purity and the ethereal, reflect his fascination with the unseen realms—a passion that would later lead him to found the Theosophical Society in Poland. In this piece, the vitality of the plant serves as a metaphor for the enduring strength of nature amidst the shifting tides of human history.

    There is a hauntingly beautiful quality to the work, a sense of romanticism that speaks to the soul. The way the flowers occupy the space—sometimes bold and prominent, sometimes receding into the soft shadows—mirrors the complexity of memory and emotion. For the collector or the lover of fine art, this painting offers a window into a lost world of elegance and mysticism, making it an evocative centerpiece for any curated collection.

    An Elegant Addition to the Modern Interior

    For interior designers and connoisseurs of fine decor, "Daturas" presents a magnificent opportunity to introduce a sense of historical depth and organic warmth into a living space. The artwork’s palette, characterized by its luminous whites and natural greens, possesses a versatile elegance that complements both classical and contemporary settings. Whether placed in a sun-drenched morning room or a sophisticated, moody study, the painting acts as a focal point that commands attention through subtlety rather than force.

    A high-quality reproduction of this masterpiece allows the timeless charm of Stabrowski’s vision to reside within your home. It brings with it an atmosphere of tranquility and intellectual curiosity, serving as a conversation piece that bridges the gap between the botanical world and the heights of human artistic achievement. Investing in such a piece is not merely about decoration; it is about surrounding oneself with the enduring beauty of the Symbolist tradition and the quiet, powerful grace of the natural world.

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Kazimierz Stabrowski

    Born in Novahrudok, Belarus

    early life and education

    kazimierz stabrowski, a renowned polish painter, was born in 1869 in navahroudak, belarus. he went on to study at the academy of fine arts in warsaw, where he later became the director. this pivotal role not only showcased his artistic prowess but also solidified his influence on the next generation of artists.

    artistic style and notable works

    stabrowski's work is characterized by its dreamy, symbolic quality, often blending elements of symbolism and romanticism. one of his most celebrated pieces, the snow maiden (1891), exemplifies this unique style, which has captivated art enthusiasts for over a century.

    founding the theosophical society in poland

    apart from his artistic achievements, stabrowski played a significant role in establishing the first lodges of the theosophical society in poland. this philosophical society, founded on the principles of spirituality and the occult, further underscores stabrowski's multifaceted nature.

    legacy and later life

    stabrowski passed away in 1929 in garwolin, poland, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire artists and art lovers alike. his influence can be seen in various aspects of polish art, from the academy of fine arts in warsaw to his numerous symbolic and romantic pieces.

    selected works by kazimierz stabrowski on AllPaintingsStore.com

    spirit of the mountains (105 x 85 cm, lithuanian art fund, vilnius, lithuania, oil on canvas) - a quintessential example of stabrowski's symbolic style.

    colosseum in the moonlight (47 x 65 cm, lithuanian art fund, vilnius, lithuania, pastel) - this piece showcases stabrowski's ability to capture ethereal landscapes.

    trees (47 x 63 cm, lithuanian art fund, vilnius, lithuania, pastel) - a unique blend of realism and abstract imagery, characteristic of stabrowski's later work.

    museums featuring kazimierz stabrowski's work on AllPaintingsStore.com

    lithuanian art fund (vilnius, lithuania) - this institution houses several of stabrowski's notable works, including those mentioned above.

    discover more about kazimierz stabrowski and his captivating art pieces on AllPaintingsStore.com.

    Museum

    Lithuanian Art Fund

    On show in Vilnius, Lithuania

    A Sanctuary of Soulful Heritage

    Nestled within the historic heart of Vilnius, the

    Lithuanian Art Fund

    offers far more than a mere exhibition of objects; it provides an intimate portal into the very essence of Lithuania’s artistic soul. Unlike the sweeping, monumental narratives found in grand national galleries, this private collection, established by the visionary Dr. Jaunius Gumbis, invites a profound personal connection. It is a place where history does not feel like a distant memory, but a living, breathing presence. The museum serves as a delicate bridge to the era of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, a period of unparalleled cultural flourishing where the influences of Poland, Russia, and Western Europe converged to create a unique, multifaceted identity.

    The architecture of the Lithuanian Art Fund further enhances this immersive experience. Housed in a beautifully preserved historic building, the museum provides a contemplative atmosphere that is rare in the modern age. The setting itself acts as a silent curator, its aged walls and quiet corners encouraging a slow, meditative approach to art appreciation. For collectors and interior designers seeking inspiration, the Fund offers a masterclass in how art can transform a space into a sanctuary of culture.

    A Tapestry of Diverse Traditions

    The collection itself is a tapestry of diverse traditions, woven with threads of folk art, sculpture, and rare literature. Visitors find themselves wandering through layers of time, encountering handcrafted treasures that whisper stories of ancient spiritual beliefs and the rhythmic pulse of daily Lithuanian life. The museum’s strength lies in its curated intimacy, prioritizing the emotional resonance of each piece over sheer volume. From the intricate patterns of traditional folk crafts to the evocative power of oil paintings, every item has been selected to foster a sense of discovery.

    Among the collection's most captivating highlights are the works that capture the shifting light and spirit of the Lithuanian landscape and its people:

    The Watercolor Landscapes of Józef Bałzukiewicz:

    These works offer a masterful glimpse into 18th-century life, where every brushstroke reconstructs the dignity of a nobleman or the quiet bustle of a street corner with historical precision.

    The Views of Helena Römer-Ochenkowska:

    Her delicate, translucent layers of Vilnius transport the viewer to the pastoral serenity of 1900.

    The Spiritual Depth of Stanislovas Grigalauskas (Daunoras):

    His hauntingly beautiful

    ‘St Peter Weeping’

    provides a profound emotive depth for those drawn to spiritual symbolism.

    The Symbolist Landscapes of Kazimierz Stabrowski:

    Dreamy vistas that invite the observer to lose themselves in a bygone era.

    It remains a singular destination for those who seek to understand not just the history of Lithuanian art, but the enduring spirit that continues to define its creative legacy.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Daturas

    originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/kazimierz-stabrowski-daturas-D8CVX5-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Stabrowski, Kazimierz. Daturas. 1900, Lithuanian Art Fund. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/kazimierz-stabrowski-daturas-D8CVX5-en/
    APA
    Stabrowski, Kazimierz (1900). Daturas [Painting]. Lithuanian Art Fund. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/kazimierz-stabrowski-daturas-D8CVX5-en/
    Chicago
    Kazimierz Stabrowski. Daturas. 1900. Lithuanian Art Fund. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/kazimierz-stabrowski-daturas-D8CVX5-en/
    Harvard
    Stabrowski, Kazimierz (1900) Daturas. Lithuanian Art Fund. Available at: https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/kazimierz-stabrowski-daturas-D8CVX5-en/

    Look closely

    Daturas — Kazimierz Stabrowski

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: flowers, daturas, white blossoms. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at Autumn landscape (1920), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Symbolism: Pictures where objects stand for ideas — a flower or a door meaning something beyond itself. Where can you see that in this work?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Questions & Answers

    Where in Kazimierz Stabrowski's career does "Daturas" fall, given its date?

    The 1900 date places "Daturas" in the Early Period of Kazimierz Stabrowski's development.

    What is the luminance of "Daturas" by Kazimierz Stabrowski?

    "Daturas" by Kazimierz Stabrowski has a bright balance luminance. Luminance describes how much light the colors appear to reflect.

    What technique was used for "Daturas" by Kazimierz Stabrowski?

    The medium of "Daturas" by Kazimierz Stabrowski is pastel. Reproductions aim to render the appearance of this technique.