The artwork titled “Two girls” was crafted by the artist Nicholas Roerich in the year 1930. Although attributed here to the Art Nouveau (Modern) art movement, this classification might not be precise, as Roerich’s work is often associated with Symbolism and has been known for blending various art styles. The genre of this work is classified as design, and it is currently held in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a pair of young girls or women dressed in elaborate folk costumes. They are set against a dark, almost black background that contrasts with the rich, vibrant colors of their garments. The costumes feature detailed patterns and bright red as a dominant color, with white and other accent colors, suggesting a cultural significance and possibly denoting a specific regional attire typical of a certain ethnicity or nation. Their dresses are adorned with decorative elements that suggest meticulous craftsmanship. Each figure’s head is capped with a traditional headdress, adding to the cultural representation of the figures.
Both figures display a graceful posture, with the girl on the left gesturing as if in mid-conversation or perhaps presenting something with an open hand. The girl on the right holds one hand to her chest while the other rests by her side, a stance that could indicate a moment of reflection or a response in a dialogue. The expressions depicted on their faces are serene, and their poses are balanced, evoking a composed and harmonious atmosphere. The characters are presented in a stylized manner, which reflects Roerich’s interest in spirituality, mythology, and ancient traditions, often embodying a sense of the mystical within his compositions.
