Study of a shore 1923

Nicholas Roerich created this study of a shore using tempera on cardboard, capturing the essence of a coastal landscape. The undulating hills and calm waters evoke a sense of tranquility, yet the arrangement of land and sea also speaks to deeper symbolic meanings rooted in our cultural memory. Consider the symbolic nature of islands, often seen across cultures as places of refuge, spiritual retreat, or even as microcosms of the world itself. This can be linked to a subconscious desire for isolation and introspection. From the mythical Avalon to the real-world monastic islands of Ireland, the island motif reappears. Here, the island is a verdant haven amidst the embracing waters, calling to mind similar images in art and mythology across centuries. As it evolves through history, this symbol carries layers of meaning: a sacred space, a natural fortress, or simply a beacon of hope in the vastness of the unknown. Roerich masterfully engages our emotions, inviting us to reflect on humanity’s enduring relationship with nature.