On the Kama near Yelabuga. 1885, 20 6x10, 9 Ivan Ivanovich Shishkin (1832-1898)

The drawing presents a landscape dominated by a sense of expansive tranquility and quiet observation. Here we see a riverine scene, likely situated on a wide, slow-moving body of water. The foreground is defined by a sloping bank densely populated with coniferous trees; three prominent pines rise above the rest, their needles rendered with meticulous detail that emphasizes their height and texture. These trees act as visual anchors, directing the viewers gaze towards the distant horizon.
The river itself occupies a significant portion of the composition, its surface subtly reflecting the sky above. A few small boats are visible on the water, suggesting human presence but not disrupting the overall feeling of solitude. The far bank is depicted as a gentle rise, covered in foliage and fading into atmospheric perspective. This receding landmass contributes to the impression of depth and vastness.
The sky occupies the upper portion of the drawing, exhibiting a cloudy formation that adds visual interest without overwhelming the scene. A single bird is visible in flight, adding a touch of dynamism to an otherwise still composition. The artist employed a technique that suggests cross-hatching and stippling, creating tonal variations and a sense of texture throughout the work.
Subtly embedded within this depiction are suggestions of human interaction with nature. While the scene appears untouched, the presence of boats implies navigation and perhaps settlement along the riverbank. The careful rendering of natural elements – the trees, water, and sky – suggests an appreciation for the beauty and power of the landscape. There is a sense of reverence conveyed through the artist’s attention to detail; it speaks to a desire to capture not just the visual appearance but also the essence of this particular place. The overall effect is one of contemplative stillness, inviting the viewer to share in the quiet observation of natures grandeur.