The artwork, titled “Visitors from over the Sea,” was created by Nicholas Roerich in 1901 using oil on canvas. It belongs to the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and is a history painting. The piece measures 80 by 112.5 centimeters and is part of the series “Beginning of Rus. Slavs.” It is currently housed in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia.
The painting portrays an evocative scene of ancient ships approaching a distant coastline. The vessels, adorned with intricate shields and figures, navigate through serene waters while seabirds soar around them. The lush, green hills of the landmass stand in stark contrast to the deep blue sea, capturing a moment of exploration and contact between distant cultures with a profound historical resonance. The composition and detailing reflect Roerich’s mastery in capturing the essence of historical narratives and the aesthetic characteristics of the Art Nouveau movement.