Gathering elders (sketch) Roerich N.K. (Part 1)

The composition presents a group of figures assembled in what appears to be a natural clearing or open space. The scene is dominated by muted earth tones – ochres, browns, and greens – which contribute to a sense of somberness and perhaps antiquity. A dense thicket of foliage occupies the right side of the frame, partially obscuring some of the individuals present.
Here we see a cluster of people seemingly engaged in a communal activity; their postures suggest a gathering or meeting of significance. Several figures are seated on the ground, while others stand, creating varied levels and planes within the group. The artist has rendered them with loose brushstrokes, prioritizing an impressionistic depiction over precise detail. Facial features are indistinct, contributing to a sense of anonymity and universality among the individuals.
A central figure, positioned slightly left of center, holds what appears to be a staff or walking stick. This individual’s posture – upright and commanding – suggests a position of authority or leadership within the group. The gaze of many figures seems directed towards this person, reinforcing their perceived importance.
The background reveals a landscape with a body of water visible in the distance, framed by distant hills or mountains. The treatment of the background is similarly indistinct, blending into the overall atmospheric effect. This lack of sharp definition draws attention to the group and emphasizes their isolation within the environment.
Subtly, there’s an implication of ritual or tradition. The gathering itself suggests a deliberate act, perhaps involving storytelling, decision-making, or the passing down of knowledge. The muted palette and indistinct features evoke a sense of timelessness, hinting at a connection to ancestral customs or ancient practices. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation and reverence for shared heritage.