Illustration for the coronation album 

Andrei Ryabushkin painted this illustration for a coronation album. The onion domes and golden crosses of the cathedral stand boldly against the sky, symbolizing the spiritual and historical heart of Russia. These architectural forms are not unique to Moscow, or even to Russia, but echo across time and cultures. Think of the domed structures of Byzantine churches, from which the Russian Orthodox tradition springs. The dome, as a symbol, transcends its architectural function. In a psychoanalytic sense, it represents the cosmos, the self, a protective enclosure. Consider how the dome motif recurs in other cultural contexts, from the Islamic world to Renaissance cathedrals, each time carrying a blend of spiritual and earthly power. Ryabushkin’s rendition captures not only the physical likeness but also the deep-seated reverence associated with these enduring forms. It is a powerful symbol, engaging viewers on a subconscious level.