They’re coming! 1901, oil on canvas, 37x55 cm Andrei Riabushkin (1861-1904)

The composition presents a densely packed group of figures arranged in a shallow pictorial space. The foreground is dominated by three men holding large, curved agricultural tools – likely sickles or scythes – which serve as prominent visual elements and suggest a sense of readiness or potential threat. These men are positioned slightly forward, drawing the viewer’s attention immediately to their presence. Their expressions are serious, bordering on grim; one appears particularly intense with his gaze directed outward.
Behind them, a multitude of faces emerges from shadow, creating an impression of a collective, anxious populace. The individuals in this background group display a range of emotions – fear, apprehension, and perhaps resignation – conveyed through their facial expressions and postures. Their clothing is varied, suggesting a community with diverse social strata. A distinct lack of individualization within the crowd contributes to a feeling of shared vulnerability.
The color palette is notable for its contrast. The bright yellow garment worn by the central figure immediately captures attention, acting as a focal point against the darker tones that envelop the rest of the scene. This use of color may signify importance or perhaps highlight an element of defiance within the group. The dark background creates a sense of claustrophobia and impending doom, intensifying the emotional weight of the moment depicted.
The artist’s brushwork is loose and expressive, contributing to the overall feeling of urgency and unrest. Details are often suggested rather than meticulously rendered, which enhances the immediacy of the scene. The absence of a clear horizon line or defined spatial depth further contributes to the sense of confinement and impending action.
Subtly, the painting seems to explore themes of communal anxiety, preparedness for an unknown threat, and the potential for violence arising from collective fear. It is not merely a depiction of individuals; it’s a portrayal of a community poised on the brink of something significant – whether that be conflict or some other form of disruption remains ambiguous, adding to the paintings unsettling power.