Wladyslaw Podkowilski was a notable Polish painter and illustrator, active in the late 19th century. Starting his career as an Impressionist, he was deeply influenced by the play of light and color, which is evident in his earlier works. However, as his style evolved, he began incorporating elements of Symbolism, creating more emotionally charged and expressive pieces. His most renowned painting, "Ecstacy" ("Szal uniesien") is a striking example of this shift, blending dynamic movement with intense emotional depth. Despite his short life, Podkowi?ski left a lasting impact on Polish art, particularly through his innovative approach to combining different artistic styles.