grandchildren, Ekimov Terentevich – Prospect Building Public College with a part of the arcade Hermitage ~ part 03

The composition presents a panoramic view of a substantial urban structure extending along a waterway. The architecture dominates the scene; a long, symmetrical building complex with multiple windows and classical detailing occupies the central perspective. Its facade is rendered in muted tones, suggesting stone or brick construction, and its scale conveys an impression of institutional importance. A series of arched openings are visible on the left side, hinting at a covered arcade or portico.
The waterway itself appears to be a canal or river, reflecting the sky and providing access to the city. Small boats are present on the water, suggesting transportation and commerce. Along the bank, figures populate the scene – individuals walking, conversing in small groups, and riding carriages. The artist has depicted these people with varying degrees of detail, some appearing as mere silhouettes while others are more clearly defined, contributing to a sense of bustling activity.
To the right of the main building complex, another structure rises, seemingly part of a larger commercial area. Here we see carts and wagons laden with goods, further reinforcing the impression of an active trading hub. The landscape is relatively flat, allowing for a clear view of the buildings and their surroundings. A slight atmospheric perspective softens the details in the distance, creating depth within the composition.
The overall effect is one of ordered grandeur and civic prosperity. The meticulous rendering of architectural elements suggests a desire to document or celebrate this urban development. The presence of people engaged in everyday activities lends a sense of realism and vitality to the scene. The formal arrangement and symmetrical design imply an intention to convey stability, authority, and progress within the depicted environment. The decorative cartouche at the bottom corner adds a layer of formality, likely intended as a visual marker of official documentation or patronage.