Munkacsy 180

Mihály Munkácsy (1844–1900) was the leading figure in nineteenth-century Hungarian art, a pioneering genius who established new traditions, whose oeuvre is a fundamental pillar in the history of Hungarian painting, and whose works constitute icons of Hungary’s cultural heritage. He was held in immense esteem and admiration throughout his lifetime, owning not only to his talent as a painter and his outstanding craft smanship, but also to his international success, a legend in the history of his development from a poor orphan to the top of the social pyramid. To mark the double anniversary of 180 years since his birth and 125 since his death, the Hungarian National Gallery is holding a major exhibition from 16 November 2024 to 16 March 2025. The exhibition includes more than fi ft y works of art (both well-known masterpieces and lesser-known works, rarely seen in Hungary) which, along with archival photographs, documents and cultural artefacts, help to reveal Munkácsy's life, achievements and his unparalleled rich oeuvre.