The artwork titled “Repentance” by Nicholas Roerich, created in 1917, is a Symbolist cityscape executed with tempera on canvas. It is currently housed in the Nicholas Roerich Museum in New York City, NY, US.
In the artwork, Roerich has depicted a solemn, snow-covered cityscape, bounded by imposing architectural structures. The buildings, adorned with thick snow, stand under an ominous sky, capturing a somber and introspective atmosphere. The use of tempera on canvas brings a subdued texture that complements the subdued, almost contemplative mood. The presence of a solitary, cloaked figure adds to the narrative depth of repentance, emphasizing the theme of introspection and humility. The architectural elements are imbued with mysticism, characteristic of Roerich’s Symbolist approach, inviting viewers to delve into deeper layers of meaning within the serene yet austere cityscape.