Petr I Russian folk splints

The engraving presents a commanding figure on horseback amidst a scene of military action. The central subject is depicted in elaborate attire, suggesting authority and status; his hand gestures towards the right side of the composition, seemingly directing or acknowledging the unfolding events below. He wears what appears to be a fur-trimmed coat over armor, further emphasizing his elevated position.
Below him, a regimented line of soldiers stands at attention, their posture rigid and uniform. They are arranged in neat rows, facing towards the viewer, creating a sense of order and discipline. The foreground is dominated by billowing smoke or clouds, obscuring some details but contributing to the dynamism of the scene. In the background, fortifications – likely representing a city or stronghold – are visible amidst more swirling smoke, indicating ongoing conflict.
The artist employed a limited tonal range, relying on hatching and cross-hatching techniques to create depth and texture. The overall effect is one of dramatic tension and heroic portrayal. The composition is vertically oriented, drawing the viewers eye upwards towards the central figure.
Subtleties within the work suggest more than just a straightforward depiction of military victory. The somewhat theatrical pose of the mounted individual, coupled with the stylized rendering of the soldiers and fortifications, hints at an idealized representation rather than a strictly realistic portrayal. The smoke obscures as much as it reveals, potentially symbolizing the complexities and uncertainties inherent in warfare and governance. The inscription below reinforces the subjects role as a leader and military figure.