Fairest City – the enemies of anger Roerich N.K. (Part 2)

The composition presents a densely populated urban center engulfed in flames. The city itself is rendered with a stark linearity; buildings rise as simplified geometric forms – primarily towers and walls – arranged in a tightly packed configuration. A sense of order and structure persists even amidst the destruction, suggesting an established civilization now facing catastrophic loss.
Dominating the right side of the scene, a lone figure on horseback appears to be observing or participating in the conflagration. The rider is armored and armed, wielding what seems to be a weapon aloft. Their posture conveys a sense of detached authority, perhaps even triumph, which contrasts sharply with the devastation below. The figures placement suggests a narrative element – an observer or instigator of the destruction rather than a victim within it.
The color palette is dominated by intense reds and oranges, conveying heat, violence, and chaos. These fiery tones are not merely descriptive; they contribute to an atmosphere of dread and impending doom. The limited use of other colors – muted browns and grays in the background landscape – further intensifies the impact of the red hues.
The artist’s choice to depict a city rather than individual figures invites contemplation on themes of societal collapse, political upheaval, or perhaps even divine retribution. The stylized rendering of both the urban environment and the rider lends an allegorical quality to the work. It is not simply a depiction of a specific event but seems intended to convey broader ideas about power, destruction, and the fragility of civilization.
The background landscape – a series of undulating hills or mountains – provides a sense of depth but also serves to isolate the city and its plight. The scale difference between the city and the rider emphasizes the latter’s dominance and control over the unfolding events. Overall, the work evokes a powerful emotional response, prompting reflection on the destructive potential inherent in human conflict and the consequences of unchecked power.