Semiverhaya corner tower of the White City in the XVII century. 1924 Apollinaris M. Vasnetsov (1856-1933)

The composition presents a fortified structure dominating the foreground, its pale stone contrasting with the warmer tones of the surrounding landscape. The towers architecture is characterized by multiple tiers, each crowned with pointed spires that reach upwards, creating a sense of verticality and imposing grandeur. Its surface appears textured, suggesting age and weathering.
Below the tower, a section of city wall extends into the distance, punctuated by smaller structures topped with onion domes – a recognizable feature of regional religious architecture. These domes are rendered in shades of green and gold, catching the light and drawing the eye. The buildings nestled against the walls exhibit steeply pitched roofs covered in what appears to be foliage or moss, contributing to a sense of organic integration within the environment.
A group of figures is visible at the base of the tower, seemingly engaged in some form of military activity – they are clad in red uniforms and appear to be mounted on horses. Their presence introduces an element of human scale and suggests a historical context related to defense or conflict. The surrounding terrain is depicted with a loose brushstroke style, conveying a sense of autumnal foliage and a hazy atmosphere. A scattering of birds adds movement and life to the scene.
The artist’s use of color creates a visual hierarchy; the towers light hue commands attention, while the warmer tones of the buildings and landscape provide depth and context. The overall impression is one of nostalgia for a bygone era – a romanticized view of historical architecture and military tradition. Theres an underlying sense of melancholy evoked by the muted palette and the depiction of a structure that appears both resilient and vulnerable against the passage of time. The work seems to explore themes of memory, preservation, and the enduring presence of the past within the landscape.