Последний бой под Плевной 28 ноября 1877 года 1889 Холст масло 112х193 см часть 2 - Russian and soviet artists Русские и советские художники

The canvas presents a sprawling panorama depicting a military retreat across a vast, undulating landscape. Here we observe a dense throng of soldiers, their uniforms suggesting a European army, moving in disarray towards the right side of the composition. The sheer number of figures creates an impression of overwhelming scale and exhaustion. They are accompanied by a significant contingent of livestock – horses, oxen, and other animals – further emphasizing the logistical burden and the chaotic nature of the withdrawal.
The terrain itself is rendered with meticulous detail; rolling hills stretch into the distance, culminating in hazy mountains that recede under a cloudy sky. The muted palette – dominated by browns, grays, and ochres – contributes to a somber atmosphere, reinforcing the sense of defeat and hardship. Patches of snow are visible on the ground, hinting at harsh weather conditions and adding to the overall feeling of bleakness.
Scattered across the foreground are fallen soldiers and discarded equipment – weapons, packs, and personal belongings – marking the cost of conflict. The presence of these casualties underscores the human toll of war and serves as a poignant reminder of loss. A few figures appear to be tending to the wounded, adding a touch of humanity amidst the devastation.
The composition is structured around a diagonal line that leads the viewer’s eye from the left foreground towards the distant mountains. This creates a sense of depth and perspective, while also emphasizing the long journey ahead for the retreating army. The artist has skillfully employed light and shadow to model the forms of the figures and landscape, creating a palpable sense of three-dimensionality.
Subtly embedded within this depiction is an exploration of themes beyond mere military action. The sheer scale of the retreat suggests not only physical exhaustion but also a potential crisis of morale. The inclusion of livestock points towards the importance of logistics in sustaining a campaign, while the scattered debris serves as a stark reminder of the ephemeral nature of material possessions and human endeavor in the face of conflict. Ultimately, the painting conveys a powerful sense of weariness, loss, and the enduring impact of war on both individuals and nations.