The artwork titled “Old Pskov,” created by the esteemed artist Nicholas Roerich in 1904, is an exemplary piece belonging to the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement. This cityscape painting is a part of the series “Sketches from Travels in Old Russian Cities” and is currently housed in the Horlivka Museum of Fine Arts in Horlivka, Ukraine.
“Old Pskov” captures a serene scene of ancient Pskov with an almost mystical ambience, depicted through Roerich’s characteristic use of vivid colors and bold outlines. The foreground features a collection of boats and red tents, contrasting against the dark, looming background of fortified walls and a cloudy sky. The painting’s composition leads the viewer’s eye through the bustling maritime activities, evoking the historical essence of the city. Roerich’s meticulous attention to architectural detail and atmospheric effect exemplifies his profound appreciation for Russian cultural heritage.
