Mihály Munkácsy is a classic of Hungarian painting

Mihály Munkácsy, one of the greatest Hungarian painters of the 19th century, whose art continues to fascinate and inspire audiences to this day. His oeuvre is rich and varied, full of dramatic scenes, deep emotions, and impressive technical bravura. The large-scale exhibition organized on the 180th anniversary of his birth and the 125th anniversary of his death offers an exceptional opportunity to get to know this exceptional artist and his work more deeply. With the help of more than a hundred works of art, archival photos, documents, and cult objects, visitors can gain insight into the twists and turns of Munkácsy’s life, his successes and struggles, and understand how he became a world-famous painter from a poor carpenter’s apprentice.

The focus of the exhibition is Munkácsy’s artistic success story. In addition to the well-known masterpieces, the exhibition also presents rarely seen works that shed new light on the painter’s career. With the help of paintings borrowed from private collections and abroad, the social and cultural influences that shaped the development and uniqueness of Munkácsy’s art are revealed.

One of the most exciting aspects of the exhibition is that it examines Munkácsy’s oeuvre in the context of the era. Significant social and political changes took place in Europe in the 19th century, which also profoundly influenced art. The struggle between Romanticism and Realism, the question of national identity, and social injustices all appear in Munkácsy’s paintings. The exhibition shows how the artist reacted to these challenges, how he reflected on the problems of his time, and how he was able to express all this in an individual, expressive style.

Mihály Munkácsy’s painting occupies a prominent place not only in Hungarian but also in European art history. The exhibition highlights the painter’s international connections, his successes at the Paris Salon, and how his art influenced his contemporaries and later generations. The exhibition presents Munkácsy’s relationship with the defining figures of the contemporary art world, such as Gustave Courbet, and how he built his career in the international art market.

The exhibition offers an interesting and enjoyable experience not only for art historians but also for the wider public. In addition to the paintings, Munkácsy’s personal belongings, letters, and photos can be seen at the exhibition, which bring visitors closer to the human side of the artist. The interactive elements of the exhibition and the use of digital technology help visitors to immerse themselves even more in Munkácsy’s world.

The exhibition organized on the occasion of the 180th anniversary of Mihály Munkácsy’s birth and the 125th anniversary of his death offers a unique opportunity to get to know one of the greatest figures of Hungarian painting. With the help of the rich material, new research results, and modern museum technology, the exhibition provides an unforgettable experience for all ages. The exhibition is recommended not only for art lovers but also for those interested in Hungarian history and culture. Mihály Munkácsy’s oeuvre is part of the Hungarian national heritage, and this exhibition is a worthy tribute to the memory of the giant of painting.

Further information: https://www.szepmuveszeti.hu/kiallitasok/munkacsy-egy-vilagsiker-tortenete/