The artwork titled “Pskov,” created by Nicholas Roerich in 1922, is executed in tempera on cardboard. This piece belongs to the Symbolism art movement and falls under the genre of cityscape.
In the artwork, Roerich captures a serene and somewhat mystical view of the city of Pskov. The composition features a prominent arched structure, a common architectural element in historical Russian cities. The building’s walls are imbued with rich, warm tones, basked in a mellow light that enhances the depth and texture of the tempera medium. Dark windows add a sense of intrigue and depth, reminiscent of ages past. In the background, a single dome emerges, coated in a deep blue hue, adding a cultural and spiritual hint to the scene. The contrast between light and shadow, along with the muted pastel sky, evokes a contemplative mood, characteristic of the Symbolism movement.
