The artwork titled “Polovtsian Camp,” created by Nicholas Roerich in 1914, is an exemplar of the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and belongs to the design genre.
In the artwork, a stark, almost monochromatic palette portrays a scene of a Polovtsian camp. Several traditional domed tents, or yurts, are positioned prominently in the foreground, decorated with simple geometric patterns. Long poles bearing tattered flags or markers are seen protruding from the ground, adding to the scene’s symbolism and atmosphere. The background merges seamlessly with the vast, open sky filled with heavy, brooding clouds, evoking a sense of isolation and contemplation. The landscape is barren, marked by low hills and sparse vegetation, capturing a moment of stillness and introspection. The overall composition and mood reflect Roerich’s ability to convey profound thematic elements through minimalist yet evocative imagery.