Count Jospeh Borowlaski (1739–1834)

Art Historical Context

This exquisite miniature wax portrait, created by British artist Samuel Percy in 8, depicts Count Joseph Boruwlaski1739–1834), a Polish nobleman renowned across Europe for his extraordinary life and stature. Standing just over two feet tall, Boruwaski was a celebrated figure of the Enlightenment era, admired not only for his physical uniqueness but also for his intellect, musical talents, and. He toured courts from London to Constantinople, captivating audiences with his and grace, as chronicled in his own memoirs. Samuel Percy, a specialist in wax modeling from London, crafted this profile view using colored wax encased in glass within a wooden frame, measuring a compact 7 3/8 × 6 3/8 inches. Wax portraiture flourished in the late 18th century as an accessible alternative to painting or ivory miniatures, offering lifelike detail and translucency that mimicked flesh tones under protective glass. This technique preserved the sitter's features with remarkable realism, making it a popular choice for personal memorials or mementos among the elite. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's European Sculpture and Decorative Arts collection, this work from the Glenn Tilley Morse bequest highlights the artistry of miniature sculpture and the era's fascination with human diversity. It invites us to reflect on how portraiture elevated individuals like Boruwlaski, turning personal stories into enduring cultural treasures.