Ostrowski, Jan K.: Cracow (Cracow [u.a.], 1992)

r-' f '

26. Michal Stachowicz, The Oath of Kosciusko on the Cracow Market Square, 1821

which determined his artistic direction. He was one of the best
architects of the last phase of Baroque in Poland. His principal
works in Cracow are the facade of the Piarist Church (the building
itself was designed by Bazanka), which scenically caps the perspec-
tive of St John Street, and the Trinitarian (now Good Friars’)
Church on Krakowska Street in Kazimierz. Both facades are based
largely on the same model, which originated with the Gesu church
in Rome, and they make an interesting comparison. The Piarist
facade is meant to be looked at from the front. It cuts an
elaborated and decorative outline against the sky but is basically
flat, with delicate linear divisions. The different site orientation of
the Trinitarian Church demanded a fagade with dramatic light and
shadow effects, to be admired from the side. The Lipski Chapel in
the Cathedral, with hidden windows illuminating the altar, proves
the architect’s full mastery of Late Baroque means of expression.

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