The artwork titled “And we are opening the gates,” created by Nicholas Roerich in 1924, is a cityscape painted on canvas using tempera. This piece, part of the Symbolism art movement, measures 25.5 x 46 cm and is a notable piece within the “Sancta” series. It is currently housed in the Nicholas Roerich Museum in New York City, NY, US.
The composition of the artwork reveals a scene viewed through a massive archway, presumably the gates referenced in the title. The stone gate, rendered in hues of purples and browns, frames a serene landscape featuring rolling hills and a distant structure that resembles a small chapel or domed building. The sky is depicted in soft pastel shades of blue and white, enhancing the depth and tranquility of the scene beyond the gates. The detailed brushwork and the use of tempera contribute to the textured and vibrant depiction associated with Roerich’s symbolic and contemplative style.
