Old Belgium (street in front of the castle) (Option theatrical sketch for a card) Roerich N.K. (Part 2)

The composition presents a nocturnal urban scene dominated by architectural forms. Here we observe a cluster of buildings arranged around what appears to be a castle or fortified structure, which rises prominently in the background. The structures are rendered with a simplified, almost block-like quality, suggesting an emphasis on mass and form over detailed representation.

The palette is restricted, primarily utilizing muted tones of grey, black, and green, punctuated by small areas of red and yellow that provide subtle highlights. This limited color range contributes to the overall somber and atmospheric mood. The light source seems diffuse and indirect, casting long shadows and obscuring details within the buildings themselves.

The foreground is defined by a low wall or embankment, which creates a visual barrier between the viewer and the scene. A small patch of vegetation emerges from behind this barrier, adding a touch of organic life to the otherwise rigid architectural landscape. The perspective is somewhat flattened, reducing depth and contributing to the feeling of an enclosed space.

The sketch’s theatrical nature – indicated by its intended use as a card design – suggests that its meant to evoke a particular sentiment or narrative rather than provide a literal depiction of a place. The darkness and imposing architecture could symbolize historical weight, national identity, or perhaps even a sense of melancholy associated with the past. The simplified forms and limited palette lend themselves to an impressionistic rendering, prioritizing emotional impact over photographic accuracy. It is likely that the artist aimed to capture not just what the scene looked like, but also how it felt.