The artwork “Old town” by Nicholas Roerich, created circa 1903, is an exemplary piece belonging to the Art Nouveau movement. This cityscape is part of the series “Sketches from travels in old Russian cities,” which captures the essence and architectural spirit of Russia’s past. The genre reflects urban environments, with Roerich’s own nuanced interpretation adding depth to the narrative conveyed through the scene.
The artwork depicts a street lined with traditional Russian architecture. Dominating the composition is a large, domed structure, typical of Russian Orthodox churches, which stands at the heart of the portrayal. The surrounding buildings boast varying forms, some with distinctly slanted roofs, reflective of historical Russian building styles. The sketch uses a limited range of tones, suggesting it might be a preliminary work or a study capturing the artist’s immediate impressions.
Through fine lines and careful shading, Roerich conveys texture and light, as well as the desolation one might feel walking through such an ancient street. The sky, drawn with light strokes, suggests a time of day when the sun is low, possibly dawn or dusk. One can discern the emptiness of the street, which emphasizes the historical atmosphere, possibly echoing the bygone grandeur of the old town. The artwork serves not only as a visual representation of a setting but also as a historical document, capturing a moment in time from Roerich’s perspective.
