“Sanctuaries and Citadels,” created in 1925 by Nicholas Roerich, is a tempera on canvas artwork that falls within the Symbolism movement and the landscape genre. It is part of the “Sanctuaries and Citadels” series and currently resides in a private collection.
The artwork portrays a majestic and rugged landscape, characterized by its earthy tones and intricate depiction of natural formations. The composition primarily showcases a vast expanse of rocky terrain, layered with varying shades of brown, ochre, and sepia. The textural quality suggests the artist’s meticulous technique in capturing the essence of the landscape’s harsh but serene beauty. Distant mountain peaks create a subtle backdrop, enhancing the depth and expansive nature of the scene. Roerich’s symbolic approach is evident in the detailed and harmonious depiction of this landscape, invoking a sense of timelessness and reverence for nature’s sanctuaries and strongholds.