Sketch for the painting "Black" Roerich N.K. (Part 2)

The composition presents a cityscape rendered in a muted palette dominated by shades of beige, lavender, and pale blue. The artist has employed a simplified, almost schematic approach to architectural representation; buildings are delineated with stark outlines and planes rather than detailed modeling. A sense of dreamlike unreality pervades the scene, as the structures appear both familiar and alien.
Here we see a densely packed urban environment rising from what appears to be a gently sloping terrain. The architecture is characterized by an unusual combination of styles – elements reminiscent of medieval fortifications are juxtaposed with more modern, angular forms. Rooflines are varied, some peaked, others flat, suggesting a haphazard accumulation over time or perhaps a deliberate disregard for architectural consistency.
The perspective is elevated, allowing the viewer to survey the entire cityscape at once. This vantage point contributes to a feeling of detachment and observation rather than immersion within the scene. The foreground features undulating forms that could be interpreted as hills or low-lying structures, further blurring the distinction between natural and built environments.
A subtle use of color creates an atmosphere of melancholy and stillness. The lack of strong contrasts and the prevalence of cool tones contribute to a sense of quietude and perhaps even isolation. There is no visible human presence; the city appears deserted, amplifying its spectral quality.
The sketch’s title suggests a deeper thematic layer. Black might refer not to literal darkness but to a symbolic void – a representation of absence, loss, or suppressed emotions. The muted colors and desolate cityscape could be interpreted as visual metaphors for these concepts. The simplified forms may also imply a stripping away of superficial details, revealing an underlying sense of emptiness or despair. Ultimately, the work invites contemplation on themes of urban decay, societal alienation, and the fragility of human existence.