Ancient Serpent (Serpent of Wisdom) 1924

"Ancient Serpent (Serpent of Wisdom)" (1924), a captivating work by Nicholas Roerich, is a striking example of his symbolic style. This painting, housed at the Roerich Museum in Moscow, features a swirling, serpentine form in the sky, representing wisdom and knowledge, amidst a scene of figures and mountainous landscapes. Roerich's use of bold colors and geometric forms imbues the work with a spiritual and mystical quality. The scene alludes to ancient myths and spiritual traditions, inviting viewers to contemplate the interconnectedness of nature, humanity, and the divine.