The artwork titled “Fiery Furnace,” created by Nicholas Roerich in 1905, is a genre painting executed in gouache, ink, cardboard, and tempera. It belongs to the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and measures 63 x 49 cm. This remarkable piece is housed in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia.
The painting vividly depicts a scene from medieval life with exceptional attention to detail and rich use of colors. The diverse techniques employed by Roerich, including gouache and tempera, contribute to the artwork’s luminous and texturally complex surface. The intricate patterns and vibrant hues typical of the Art Nouveau movement are evident throughout the composition. The portrayal of figures and the architectural elements reflects a blend of spiritual and historical themes, reminiscent of Russian folklore and traditional iconography. The overall atmosphere created by the artwork is both mystical and grandiose, inviting the viewer into an elaborate narrative scene.
