Study of mountains 

Nicholas Roerich, a Russian artist, painted this study of mountains, using tempera, probably in the first half of the 20th century. Roerich was deeply involved in the spiritual and esoteric movements of his time, seeking to find a universal spirituality that transcended religious differences. Roerich's aesthetic choices, such as the simplified forms and heightened colors, evoke a sense of the sublime in nature. He spent extensive periods in the Himalayas, and these landscapes became central to his artistic and spiritual vision. The image creates meaning through visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations, such as the symbol of light or enlightenment, represented by the sun. Roerich’s work also reflects the influence of Russian Symbolism, which sought to express spiritual truths through symbolic imagery. To fully appreciate Roerich’s work, one needs to explore his writings, his involvement in cultural organizations, and the historical context of early 20th-century esoteric movements. The meaning of art is always contingent on the social and institutional context in which it is created and received.