Created in 1914 by Nicholas Roerich, the artwork titled “Young men, successors” belongs to the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and falls under the genre of genre painting. Presently housed in the Horlivka Museum of Fine Arts in Horlivka, Ukraine, this piece exemplifies the fusion of detailed figurative elements typical of the Art Nouveau style.
The artwork depicts three young men standing closely together, each adorned in richly detailed, medieval-style attire. The figures are characterized by elongated forms and stylized features, with the foremost individual clothed in a red garment elaborately decorated with golden trim, while the others are dressed in complementary hues of blue and green. They appear as though stepping forth together, their expressions conveying a sense of noble purpose and shared destiny. A detailed depiction of a crest or emblem is present in the top right corner, adding an element of heraldic significance to the piece. The background is relatively plain, ensuring the viewer’s focus remains on the figures and their ornate costumes. The composition showcases Nicholas Roerich’s finesse in blending stylistic sophistication with cultural and historical motifs.