The artwork titled “Partisans,” created by Nicholas Roerich in 1942, is a tempera on canvas painting belonging to the Symbolism art movement. This genre painting measures 46 x 80 cm and captures the essence of its subject matter through its stylistic elements and thematic depth.
In the artwork, a group of partisans is depicted traversing a rugged, snow-covered landscape. The painting’s cold, blue-dominated palette is contrasted by the warm hues of the sky, suggesting either dusk or dawn. The figures appear cloaked and determined, moving through a dense forest characterized by towering, snow-laden trees. The scene evokes feelings of endurance and resolve, as the partisans navigate the challenging terrain. The composition’s dramatic use of color and form demonstrates Roerich’s symbolic approach, creating a narrative rich in emotional and historical context.