The artwork titled “Book of Life” was created by the artist Nicholas Roerich in 1939. Utilizing canvas and tempera as mediums, this piece is associated with the Symbolism art movement. It measures 66.3 x 122.2 cm and falls within the landscape genre. The artwork is housed in the Roerich Museum located in Moscow, Russia.
“Book of Life” is a landscape painting that vividly captures the serene and mystical aura of a mountain range. The background is dominated by imposing, angular blue mountains, which appear almost ethereal under a clear sky. In the foreground, a solitary figure, clad in robes, is seated thoughtfully amidst a rocky terrain, seemingly in meditation or contemplation. Beside this figure, a few animals, possibly deer, coexist peacefully within the natural environment. The combination of the spiritual human presence and the harmonious wildlife against the majestic mountain backdrop suggests a deep narrative entwining nature and introspection, a hallmark of Symbolist art. The use of subdued yet vibrant hues and the meticulous detailing evoke a sense of tranquility and profound reflection, characteristic of Roerich’s artistic vision.
