Józef Ignacy Kraszewski (1812 – 1887)

The permanent exhibition in the historic home of the writer, historian and publicist Józef Ignacy Kraszewski (1812 – 1887) tells of his life, the history of the neighbouring country of Poland and the traditional Saxon-Polish ties that Kraszewski also developed in his works. Visitors have the opportunity to learn more about the background to the Great Polish Emigration in Dresden and Polish history.

Józef Ignacy Kraszewski left Warsaw in 1863 during the January Uprising, which rose up against the division of Poland by Russia, Prussia and Austria. Many Poles, including writers, musicians and artists, left their country in the 19th century due to the complicated political situation. Kraszewski settled in Dresden - supposedly only temporarily, but he ended up living and working here for 21 years. In his adopted home of Saxony, he pursued a lively scientific, political and, above all, literary career. The exhibition illustrates this versatility.

Kraszewski wrote almost one hundred novels, including the 29-volume cycle of novels on the history of Poland. His »Saxon Trilogy« with the novels »Countess Cosel«, »Brühl« and »From the Seven Years' War« is well-known and popular – a colourful portrait of Electoral Saxony and Poland in the 18th century. The film adaptation under the title »Saxony's Splendour and Prussia's Glory« increased the popularity of the Polish writer in Saxony. It opened up a new perspective on the tradition of Saxon-Polish relations and vividly recalled Saxon history.