The patron-servant relation on the example of Elżbieta Sieniawska, née Lubomirska and Izrael Rubinowicz

Abstract

The article shows relationships between Elżbieta Sieniawska, née Lubomirska (died in 1729), the castellan of Krakow and Izrael Rubinowicz (died in 1742/43), of Jewish origin, the general manager of the Rytwiany–Lubnice complex, including the town of Staszów. In the light of their correspondence it is possible to prove his features of character that enabled him to keep his position for almost 35 years. Looking at the letters Rubinowicz can be considered as a creative, economic, faithful and hard-working man, who possessed wide knowledge in many fields of economy, farming and modern means of transport. This office allowed Rubinowicz to gather quite a big wealth and gain other profits. Thanks to his powerful patron, E. Sieniawska, Rubinowicz was acquainted with numerous influential individuals and families, which enabled him to secure children’s future and support the Jewish community.