Sketch for "Light Conquers Darkness" 1933

This is Nicholas Roerich’s sketch for “Light Conquers Darkness,” made with pencil on paper, though the exact date remains unknown. It portrays a classic battle between good and evil, a knight slaying a dragon, rendered in a distinctly stylized manner. Roerich, a Russian artist, was deeply influenced by the Symbolist movement and Theosophy, a blend of Western and Eastern spiritual traditions. His art often explores themes of enlightenment and cosmic harmony, reflecting a broader cultural interest in spirituality outside established religious institutions. The image taps into the traditions of Orthodox icon painting while engaging with the esoteric themes of the early 20th century. To fully understand Roerich, we need to consider his engagement with the art institutions of his time and the spiritual movements that shaped his worldview. Museum archives, historical societies, and collections of religious writings, will help us place Roerich’s image within its complex cultural context.