A Sister of Mercy

Mediums: oil, canvas.
Location: The Yaroslavl State Art Museum (Russia).

Unlike other works of the cycle, in which the human figure can only be guessed in a picturesque layering of forms, the sister of mercy is depicted more carefully, and the viewer can examine not only her bowed head and outstretched hand, but even folds on her clothes. The figure occupies the entire left side of the canvas, while the right side is a chaotic layering of colors, curving lines and spots. The image of the sister is the lightest in the picture, and there is a noticeable slight glow resembling a halo above her head. Her simple and bright image impresses the viewer by its tranquility amid the gloomy chaos of the surrounding city.