Edge. The sketch for the painting "The Old Men Gathering Together" (1898) Roerich N.K. (Part 1)

Here we observe a study depicting a densely wooded area, likely a forest edge. The composition is dominated by several tall, dark tree trunks that rise vertically from the foreground, partially obscuring the view deeper into the woodland. These trees are rendered with thick impasto, emphasizing their rough bark and imposing presence. Their placement creates a sense of enclosure and limits the viewer’s perspective.
The ground plane is uneven and covered in a profusion of vegetation – grasses, wildflowers, and low-lying shrubs. The artist employed a vibrant palette for these elements, contrasting sharply with the somber tones of the trees. Patches of yellow, red, and blue flowers punctuate the green foliage, adding visual interest and suggesting a sense of vitality. A winding path or track is discernible through this undergrowth, hinting at human passage but remaining indistinct.
The background recedes into a hazy atmosphere, with the density of the trees increasing towards the horizon line. The sky is overcast, contributing to the overall muted and melancholic mood. Light appears diffused, filtering weakly through the canopy above.
Subtly, the sketch conveys an impression of transition – between light and shadow, openness and enclosure, civilization and wilderness. The fragmented view suggests a sense of loss or limitation; something is being concealed or obscured. The presence of the path implies a journey, but its ambiguity leaves the destination uncertain. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation, evoking feelings of solitude and perhaps a touch of wistfulness. It seems to be an exploration of boundaries – both physical and metaphorical – and the interplay between concealment and revelation within a natural setting.