Her Majesty Queen Camilla has welcomed an extraordinary gift from Poland: an intricately crafted nativity scene made from nearly 143,000 matchsticks, created by Przemysław Kozłowski, a Polish artist living with a disability. The presentation, made possible with the support of the Polish Embassy in London, took place during a special audience at Buckingham Palace, marking a deeply symbolic moment for both the artist and the Polish community.
The remarkable artwork is the result of more than seven months of work. Kozłowski began building the nativity scene on 8 April, carefully assembling each element with the help of his wife, Magdalena, and his brother, Radzisław. By 10 October, the structure had reached its final stage, with the artist completing the roof, a milestone he proudly shared with followers on social media.
For Przemysław Kozłowski, who comes from the village of Słupowo in the Sicienko municipality, the nativity scene is far more than a decorative object. It carries a personal and universal message: encouragement for people living with disabilities to dream boldly and never abandon their ambitions. The Queen’s interest and warmth deeply moved the artist, inspiring him to offer the piece as a gesture of gratitude and respect.
The nativity scene was assembled at the palace in Sicienko and unveiled to the public between 13 and 15 November, allowing visitors to admire the extraordinary level of detail achieved using such a fragile and unconventional material. Shortly afterwards, Kozłowski began preparing for his journey to London.
On 18 November, he wrote on social media: “Dear friends, we’re just flying to London. Who do you think will receive the nativity scene made of more than 142,000 matchsticks?”
The answer soon became clear.
Kozłowski is already well known for presenting his matchstick creations to prominent figures and institutions around the world. His works have previously been gifted to Pope Francis, and one of his nativity scenes is housed at the famous sanctuary in Santiago de Compostela. Each gift reflects his belief that art can transcend borders, language, and personal limitations.
The artist has also created bespoke matchstick pieces celebrating Polish sporting icons, including a tennis racket for Iga Świątek and a football for Robert Lewandowski.
The presentation of the nativity scene to Queen Camilla was a powerful symbol of cultural exchange, perseverance, and human creativity.
As Przemysław Kozłowski’s journey brings him from a small Polish village to the heart of the British monarchy, his story serves as a reminder that talent, dedication, and belief in oneself can illuminate even the most unlikely paths.
Source: Polish Embassy London
Photo: Polish Embassy UK/X
Tomasz Modrzejewski
