Flood in St. Petersburg 1824

"Flood in St. Petersburg" is a pen and ink drawing by Russian artist Orest Kiprensky, created in 1824. The artwork depicts a dramatic scene of a flood in the city of St. Petersburg, showing a group of people huddled together in the rising water. Kiprensky, born in 1782 and died in 1836, was known for his portraits and historical scenes, often capturing the lives of ordinary people. This drawing showcases his skill in capturing the chaotic energy of the event, with swirling lines and dynamic poses. The drawing's small size, 28.4 x 20.6 cm, adds to its intimacy and immediacy, bringing the viewer close to the scene. The subject of the flood, a natural disaster, is a recurring theme in art, representing the forces of nature and the fragility of human life.