Nizhny Novgorod 1919

Konstantin Gorbatov’s ‘Nizhny Novgorod’ presents a waterside view in a thick impasto of muted tones. It's clear Gorbatov wasn't aiming for a perfect replica, but rather a feeling, an impression of light on water and the bustle of river life. You can almost feel the humid air and hear the gentle lapping of the water against the hulls of the boats. Look closely, and you'll see the way he’s built up the paint, especially in the reflections on the water. It’s as though he's sculpting with color, making the surface shimmer. Notice how the brushstrokes are so visible, each dab and stroke contributing to the overall texture, and creating a real material presence. That small boat in the foreground, with the figures rowing, seems to summarize the whole piece: a small moment, captured with such tactile energy. It reminds me a little of Sisley, but with a Russian soulfulness that's all its own. It’s a great example of how painting can embrace ambiguity and capture the world in a way that’s both immediate and deeply felt.