Karol Zyndram Maszkowski

In 1892, he submitted a doctoral dissertation, on a subject he had been assigned three years earlier, but chose not to take the exam; having decided to pursue a career in art, rather than medicine.

He then moved to Paris, where he polished his skills at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts with Jean-Léon Gérôme, followed by some time at the Académie Julian.

In 1914, he joined the rifle unit of the Polish Legion, and donated his manor house in Zembrzyce for the convalescence of wounded soldiers.

He initially fought under the command of Captain Zbigniew Dunin-Wasowicz, then worked at staff headquarters for the Polish Legion.

Although he recovered, this ended his active participation in the war so, in 1917, he returned to Kraków and became involved in organizing the military museum.

He was promoted to captain in 1918, worked in the propaganda department of the 2nd Rifle Division, and lectured at the Military Geographical Institute.