Pious and Virtuous: Former Gdańsk Citizens in the Mirror of Art

The exhibition gathers sculptures, paintings and works of applied art present in Gdańsk from the early 13th to the second half of the 18th century. Particular emphasis is placed on the functions these objects served in the lives of former Gdańsk citizens. The exhibition is divided into three zones. The first presents church art, the second objects connected with the public activity of townspeople, and the third items furnishing the private space of a Gdańsk house.

The division into the Middle Ages and the early modern era is also important. The boundary between them is marked by the Reformation, one of the most important phenomena not only in the history of Europe but also in the history of Gdańsk. Within the exhibition space, the two eras are symbolically separated by a portal from the Church of St. Catherine.

In the life of medieval communities, religion occupied a central place. Piety found expression in various ways. Besides taking part in services, it was expressed through fasting, pilgrimages, the practice of good works and numerous artistic foundations. Painted or carved retables (otherwise altarpieces), placed on the altar, played a special role. Religious life of the community centred on the Eucharistic table. Hence the large number of retables, or their fragments, in the exhibition.

In early modern Gdańsk, which was already Protestant, religion remained very important in social life. However, the forms of piety changed and became much simpler than Catholic ones. This was also reflected in the works of art created at that time.

At the same time, ancient Stoic philosophy was eagerly embraced; the Stoics held that only a virtuous life has value. In private and public life, people therefore sought to cultivate a defined set of virtues, and their images adorned city gates, seats of power and private townhouses.

In the hands of the upper strata of the burgher class who ruled the city, works of art thus became a tool through which they expressed the moral, political, social and religious content most important to them.

The exhibition shows Gdańsk citizens as they wished to be seen: as pious Christians and virtuous members of the urban community. Were they really like that? Works of art do not give a definite answer to this question. However, they help us understand the world of people who lived in Gdańsk before us.

Scenario: Weronika Grochowska and Magdalena Mielnik Curators: Anna Baranowska-Fietkiewicz, Weronika Grochowska, Lech Łopuski, Magdalena Mielnik, Beata Sztyber, Alicja Andrzejewska-Zając, Maja Mociewicz, Beata Purc-Stępniak Coordination: Agata Abramowicz and Franciszek Skibiński Graphic design: Hardziej Studio (Patryk Hardziej and Ada Zielińska)

The exhibition can be explored with the audio guide available in the mobile app. It is an excellent opportunity to discover the works on display from a new perspective and to deepen your knowledge of the exhibits.

All you need to do is download the app appaudioguide.com/mngshareapp