“Dwelling of Gunding” is a 1907 artwork by Nicholas Roerich, executed in sanguine and ink on paper. It belongs to the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and is classified as a sketch and study. The artwork is currently housed in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia.
The artwork portrays an interior scene characterized by a richly textured and intricately detailed depiction of what appears to be a traditional dwelling. Dominating the composition are structural wooden beams, pillars, and ornate carvings that suggest an adherence to ancient, perhaps cultural or spiritual, architectural design. A large central tree trunk appears to support the structure, imbued with a sense of solidity and permanence. The composition captures the interplay of light and shadow, heightening the sense of depth and texture. Stark lines and dark hues of ink juxtaposed with the subtle richness of sanguine evoke a sense of history and reverence, reflective of the Art Nouveau style’s intrinsic connection to nature and the past.
