THE SOUL OF RIGA
THE SOUL OF RIGA
Art Nouveau Muse
History and Facts
This sculptural figure decorates the Art Nouveau facade of Smilšu iela 2, a residential building designed by Konstantīns Pēkšēns in 1902. Though located in Old Riga, the house is a true Jugendstil masterpiece — its red brick, plaster, and colored tiles are crowned by a central bay window supported by caryatids and atlantes.

Interesting Fact
The female figure beneath the bay window is often called one of the most beautiful Art Nouveau caryatids in Riga, a symbol of the era’s belief that human form and architecture could merge into one living ornament.

Author’s Note
Sunlight across her face reveals both softness and strength — the moment where stone becomes emotion.
Art Nouveau Muse / Jānis Kaugurs 2025

Rediscover Riga with the exclusive “SOUL OF RIGA” collection – black-and-white artistic puzzles and playing cards created in infrared technique, capturing the city’s atmosphere, architecture, and unique spirit.

SIA BLACK BIRD, JŪSU DRUKA presents: Soul of Riga – Puzzles and Cards

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