Alarm (sketch) # 55 (Anxiety. Sketch) Roerich N.K. (Part 5)

The composition presents a figure positioned within a dark, arched space, gazing out upon a landscape rendered in cool blues and whites. The framing arch itself dominates the foreground, its deep indigo hue creating a stark contrast with the luminous vista beyond. This architectural element serves not merely as a border but actively shapes the viewers perspective, channeling attention toward the distant scenery.
The figure, clad in what appears to be a red garment, is depicted in profile, his posture suggesting contemplation or perhaps apprehension. His hand rests on a support – possibly a ledge or railing – further emphasizing his stillness and observation. The limited detail afforded to his form contributes to an overall sense of anonymity; he functions less as an individual and more as a representative of the observer.
Beyond the arch lies a landscape characterized by undulating forms, likely mountains or hills, receding into a hazy distance. A body of water occupies much of the middle ground, its surface reflecting the muted light and contributing to the painting’s pervasive atmosphere of quietude. The islands rising from this water possess sharp, angular silhouettes that disrupt the otherwise smooth horizontality, introducing an element of visual tension.
The color palette is predominantly cool – variations of blue and white – with the red garment providing a singular point of warmth. This limited range reinforces the painting’s somber mood and contributes to its dreamlike quality. The use of broad brushstrokes and simplified forms suggests a sketch or study, prioritizing emotional impact over meticulous representation.
Subtly, the work explores themes of isolation and introspection. The figures separation from the landscape – both physically through the archway and emotionally through his detached posture – implies a sense of alienation. The vastness of the vista, while potentially beautiful, also evokes feelings of insignificance and vulnerability. The title’s reference to “anxiety” aligns with this interpretation; the painting doesn’t depict overt distress but rather conveys an underlying current of unease and apprehension in the face of something immense and unknowable. Ultimately, it is a study in mood, capturing a moment of quiet contemplation tinged with melancholy.