Conquest of Kazan 1914

"Conquest of Kazan" is a 1914 painting by Nicholas Roerich, currently housed in the National Gallery of Armenia. This work exemplifies Roerich's signature style, blending historical narratives with symbolic imagery and a vibrant color palette. The painting depicts the 1552 conquest of Kazan by Ivan the Terrible, highlighting the clash between Eastern and Western cultures. In the background, a fortified city under a fiery sky symbolizes Kazan, while a large hand emerges from the clouds, representing divine intervention. The foreground features a procession of Russian soldiers, emphasizing the victory and its connection to a higher power. This painting is a significant example of Roerich's use of historical events to explore themes of spiritual destiny and national identity.