“Captive,” created by Nicholas Roerich in 1937, belongs to the Symbolism art movement. This genre painting, measuring 79.3 by 46.3 centimeters, is housed in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia.
The artwork depicts a solitary, seated figure draped in flowing garments in a seemingly subterranean setting. Illuminated by an ethereal light from above, the scene evokes a sense of mystery and contemplation. The dimly lit environment, defined by robust, ancient architectural elements, contrasts with the soft, almost spectral glow that bathes the figure, reinforcing the painting’s symbolic nature. The overall composition draws the viewer into a reflection on themes of solitude, endurance, and the human condition.
