North side of Red Square 1802

Fyodor Alekseyev created this watercolor painting, *North side of Red Square*, capturing a slice of 18th-century Russian life. Alekseyev, who became known for his cityscapes, invites us into a world of imperial grandeur and bustling commerce. What strikes me about this image is how it subtly portrays the era's social hierarchy. The architecture speaks of imperial power, yet the figures populating the square, from the gentry in their carriages to the merchants hawking goods, indicate a society in transition. I'm drawn to how Alekseyev balances the monumental with the mundane. He doesn't shy away from depicting the grit and grind of everyday life alongside symbols of power. The painting becomes a social document, reflecting not just the physical space of Red Square, but also the complex relationships within Russian society. What do you see in the painting? Through his detailed depiction, Alekseyev offers us a glimpse into a time of shifting social structures, inviting reflection on Russia's evolving identity.