L'Epopee Polonaise

"L'Epopée Polonaise" by Antoine Bourdelle is a bronze relief that depicts the Polish epic poem of the same name. The relief features a series of scenes from the poem, including battles and other important moments, arranged in a dynamic and flowing composition. Commissioned in 1908 by a Franco-Polish committee, it illustrates Adam Mickiewicz poem. The monument, titled “ThePolishEpic”, is a symbol of national defense and Poland's complicated history. Bourdelle's highly stylized forms and expressive lines are on full display in this work, as he brings the characters and events of the epic poem to life with his sculptural mastery. At the time of its creation, "L'Epopée Polonaise" was widely praised for its innovative style and its powerful depiction of a timeless story. This relief remains a significant example of Bourdelle's ability to merge classical forms with modern elements, creating works that are both timeless and contemporary.