City Candy. 1913 Konstantin Alekseevich Korovin (1861-1939)

The canvas presents a densely populated urban scene, rendered in a style that prioritizes emotional expression over realistic depiction. Buildings dominate the composition, their forms fractured and abstracted into geometric planes. These structures do not appear as solid masses but rather as collections of intersecting lines and blocks of color – predominantly blues, greens, and browns – creating an impression of instability and visual chaos.
A central, lighter structure, possibly a church spire or tower, rises above the surrounding buildings, its pale coloration offering a focal point amidst the darker tones. However, even this element is distorted, lacking clear definition and appearing to lean precariously. The artist employed a limited palette, relying on variations within these core colors to suggest depth and form. A patch of orange-red appears in the upper left quadrant, acting as an unexpected accent that draws attention and contributes to the overall sense of unease.
The perspective is skewed; lines converge at unusual angles, further disrupting any conventional spatial relationships. The ground plane seems tilted or uneven, adding to the feeling of disorientation. Theres a distinct lack of human presence – no figures populate this urban landscape, which amplifies the sense of isolation and anonymity inherent in modern city life.
The painting’s subtexts likely explore themes of urbanization, alienation, and the psychological impact of rapid industrial growth. The fractured forms and dissonant colors suggest a breakdown of traditional structures and values. It is not merely a representation of a place but an emotional response to it – a visual articulation of anxiety and disorientation in the face of modernity’s relentless advance. The absence of human figures implies a detachment, suggesting that individuals are lost within this overwhelming environment. Ultimately, the work conveys a sense of claustrophobia and psychological pressure associated with urban existence.