The artwork titled “Light night (Castle of prince Judas Iscariot)” is a creation by Nicholas Roerich in 1909. Crafted using pencil on paper, this piece is classified within the design genre and is influenced by the Art Nouveau (Modern) art movement. The piece reflects the stylistic characteristics and aesthetic considerations that were prevalent at the turn of the 20th century.
Upon examining the artwork, one can observe a moody and atmospheric representation of a castle set amidst a rugged and craggy landscape. The castle itself is perched on a great height, suggesting a sense of isolation and inaccessibility. The pencil medium has been employed to create a variety of tones, capturing the play of light and shadow effectively, thus creating a sense of depth and texture in the portrayal of the rocks and architectural elements. Attention to detail is evident in the meticulous rendering of the scene, which evokes a dream-like or otherworldly aura. The use of monochromatic shades enhances the eerie and perhaps forlorn nature of the composition, inviting viewers to ponder the story and symbolism behind the choice of depicting the castle of Prince Judas Iscariot – a figure with profound historical and biblical connotations. Overall, the artwork invites contemplation and offers a glimpse into the imaginative realms explored by Nicholas Roerich.
