Dovbush, the ruler of the mountains 1931

Oleksa Novakivskyi painted this imposing portrait of Dovbush, the ruler of the mountains, using bold brushstrokes to capture the essence of power and authority. Here, the mountains themselves form a crown around Dovbush. This motif resonates with ancient traditions, echoing the power of nature as a divine endorsement. Think of the Egyptian pharaohs, whose headdresses symbolized dominion over the land, or the Greek gods atop Mount Olympus, reigning over mortals. Such symbols are not mere decorations; they tap into a primal part of our collective memory, conjuring notions of leadership. These motifs have evolved through time, shifting in meaning, yet the underlying message of power persists. The very act of portraying a figure against a mountainous backdrop can be seen as an attempt to imbue that individual with a sense of timelessness, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. These symbols are a cyclical dance through history. They resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings, forever entwined with our understanding of power and legacy.