Rajnagar. Marble Embankment Decorated with Bas-Reliefs on a Lake in Udaipur (1874)
Vasily Vereshchagin's 'Evening on the Lake. A Pavilion on the Marble Embankment in Rajnagar' is a remarkable oil painting completed in 1874, offering a peaceful vista of Udaipur's architecture and landscape. This work stands out from Vereshchagin's war-focused reputation, demonstrating his skill in landscape depiction. The serene scene includes intricate bas-reliefs and a tranquil lake, immersing viewers in the beauty of this Indian principality. Currently housed in the Tretyakov Gallery, this artwork highlights Vereshchagin's artistic journey during his travels in India.
Year 1874
About the Artwork
Vasily Vereshchagin, renowned primarily for his war paintings, embarked on an extensive journey through the Himalayas and India in the mid-1870s. 'Evening on the Lake' reflects a moment of introspection and appreciation for peaceful landscapes amidst his otherwise tumultuous artistic focus. Created in 1874, before he completed his travels, this painting served as a representation of the serene beauty of Rajnagar, specifically its harmonious architectural elements against the backdrop of nature. The artwork captures the essence of a late afternoon by the lake, showcasing a pavilion adorned with ornate bas-reliefs, bringing an air of tranquility that contrasts sharply with the artist's more well-known depictions of conflict and destruction.
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Did You Know
While Vasily Vereshchagin is primarily celebrated for his war depictions, ‘Evening on the Lake’ showcases his talent in landscapes, illustrating his versatility as an artist.
Udaipur, known as the City of Lakes, was a vital location for artists and travelers in the 19th century, inspiring many with its picturesque architecture and serene water bodies, making it a frequent subject for various artworks.
Vereshchagin’s travels across India and the Himalayas contributed enormously to his visual narrative, offering him diverse subjects, from majestic landscapes to the realities of war, which he captured through a unique and realistic lens.
