Maria Krzyszkowska, 1st voto Wójcikowska, 2nd voto Nowicka (1927-2014) - outstanding ballet artist. The title of prima ballerina was given to her by Julian Tuwim, artistic director of the New Theater in Warsaw, where M.K. performed as a soloist (in 1947-50). A long-time prima ballerina of the State Opera of Warsaw and the Grand Theater in Warsaw, she headed the ballet at the Grand Theater for more than 20 years, and then at the "Roma" Musical Theater. Awarded and decorated many times.
Handwritten dedication in pen (stating: To Mr. Gracjan Lepianko Maria Krzyszkowska 24-IV.59.) at the bottom of a photograph measuring 17.8 x 12.8 cm, mounted in a sheet measuring 22.3 x 15.3 cm, on the verso of which is a stamp: Gabinet for the Repair of Works of Art and Artistic Objects Gracjan Lepianko Warsaw, Krak.-Przedm. 10.
Condition: sheet with minor creases, soiling, photograph with creased corners (from dry mounting), minor scratches and soiling on the surface.
Gracjan Lep ianko (1905 - 15 V 1991) - Warsaw restorer who ran the Cabinet for the Repair of Works of Art and Artistic Objects at 10 Krakowskie Przedmieście Street for several decades. He graduated from the Schools of Drawing and Painting at 9 Wierzbowa Street, the School of Applied Art at Chmielna Street and the School of Decorative Arts at Myśliwiecka Street, obtaining the title of master decorative painter and master of artistic metal products. He began studies at the Academy of Fine Arts, but the financial situation forced him to interrupt his studies and take up a job. He became self-employed in 1931 and changed locations several times(before, 1952, he ended up in Krakowskie Przedmieście). He was passionate about sports, training amateur boxing and wrestling. During World War II, a passion for reviving "dead"/destroyed objects awoke in him. He not only repaired but also collected antiques. After the war he became very popular, there were films about him, mentions in the press and guidebooks. Visited by numerous celebrities(of many fields), who sometimes left commemorative entries.