“Captive,” created by Nicholas Roerich in 1909, is a piece rooted in the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement, falling within the genre of design. This artwork is housed in the St. Petersburg State Museum of Theater and Music, located in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
The artwork features an individual, presumably female, depicted in a traditional attire. Her garments are intricately detailed, with patterns and adornments suggestive of an elaborate design sensibility consistent with Art Nouveau’s stylistic tendencies. She is adorned with jewelry on her neck and wrists, adding to her regal appearance. The figure is barefoot, with her posture and expression exuding a sense of calm or contemplation. The use of monochromatic shading lends a timeless quality to the piece, emphasizing the delicate and meticulous craftsmanship of Roerich. The overall composition reflects an elegant and harmonious blend of cultural and artistic traditions, reaffirming Roerich’s mastery in the design genre.
