The artwork titled “Italy” by Nicholas Roerich, created in 1907, is a masterful example of Realism. Rendered in Indian ink on paper, this landscape piece measures 17.5 x 17.5 cm. Presently housed in the Pushkin House (Institute of Russian Literature) in Saint Petersburg, Russia, the piece offers a detailed depiction reflective of its era and genre.
The artwork captures a densely built town nestled between rolling hills, illustrating an intricate and cohesive landscape. The town with its multitude of structures, ranging from small homes to larger edifices, sits centrally within the frame, drawing the viewer’s eye towards the complexity of medieval architecture. Surrounding the town, the undulating hills serve as both a protective barrier and a visual backdrop, emphasizing the elevated nature of the settlement. The sinuous paths leading to and from the town highlight the connectivity and movement within this serene environment. The foreground is characterized by darkened vegetation and pathways, contrasting sharply with the illuminated built environment, showcasing the artist’s adept use of ink to bring depth and contrast to the piece.