The artwork titled “Illustration to ‘Feast of Peter the Great'” was created by Nicholas Roerich in 1901. This work is a watercolor on paper and measures 9.3 x 14 cm. Exhibiting traits of the Art Nouveau movement, which is also known as “Modern,” it serves as an illustration and is preserved in the Pushkin Museum located in Moscow, Russia.
The artwork presents a fragmented, almost mosaic-like composition, with an earthy color palette dominated by yellows, browns, and greens, which are typical of Roerich’s early pieces. Its intricate detailing suggests that a considerable amount of attention has been dedicated to the portrayal of textures and patterns. The subject of the piece appears to be nautical in nature, as indicated by the presence of what seems to be a ship. We can observe the hull and the masts intricately woven into the design, with their forms stylized in a manner consistent with Art Nouveau sensibilities, which often embrace elegant, flowing lines and organic forms.
The background is filled with structures that resemble buildings or a landscape, adding a sense of place to the scene. The intricate use of text within the artwork suggests a connection to literature or a narrative theme, which aligns with its identification as an illustration. The text appears to be in Cyrillic script, hinting at the artwork’s cultural origin. This detailed artwork encapsulates the symbolic and romantic qualities often found in Roerich’s work, telling a story beyond its visual appeal and drawing the observer into contemplation of its deeper meanings.
