The symbol of Sigismund Augustus's love. A diptych of portraits of Elizabeth and Barbara

The Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania Museum presents an international exhibition featuring an exceptional personal relic of Sigismund Augustus (1520–1572) – a portable altar with portraits of both his spouses, Barbara Radziwiłł (1522/1523–1551) and Elizabeth of Austria (1526–1545).

The love story of Sigismund Augustus and Barbara Radziwiłł is one of the most romantic historical narratives, having inspired numerous works of fiction, music, paintings, and films. It is believed that the diptych was created in Vilnius or Kraków as a private relic for Sigismund Augustus, intended to commemorate his second wife, Barbara, who died in 1551. Over time, a legend emerged that Sigismund Augustus never parted with this precious object until the very end of his life.

More information about the exhibition: https://bit.ly/diptikas