The artwork titled “Ominous” was created by Nicholas Roerich in 1901. It is associated with the Art Nouveau movement, which was known for its modern style characterized by elaborate, flowing designs often incorporating floral and other natural forms. This particular piece is categorized within the genre of animal painting.
Upon examining the artwork, one notices a central figure that captures the viewer’s attention—a dark, imposing creature that resembles an ape or primate, set against a backdrop of what appears to be a mountainous landscape and a textured sky, evoking a sense of solitude and quiet tension. The animal is depicted in a contemplative or introspective pose, which may be intended to incite reflection or convey a sense of foreboding amongst viewers. The use of a limited and understated color palette emphasizes the mood of the scene, further contributing to the work’s eponymous sense of foreboding or menace. Given the simplicity of the composition, it is the emotional weight conveyed through the creature’s visage and posture that stands as the artwork’s most commanding feature.
