The artwork, titled “Harrowing of Hell,” was created by Nicholas Roerich in 1933. It belongs to the Symbolism art movement and is classified as a religious painting.
In this artwork, Roerich depicts a dramatic and intense scene with the central figure of a divine being, identifiable by a glowing halo, standing on a rocky precipice. The surroundings are bathed in deep and fiery hues, which intensify the scene’s emotional impact. Below the central figure, monstrous, demonic entities with gaping, sharp-toothed mouths seem to be immersed in torment and chaos. The contrasting colors and the dynamic composition highlight the stark divide between the serene divine figure and the chaotic infernal creatures, emphasizing the dramatic nature of the scene. The use of bold, vibrant colors and sharp contrasts is characteristic of Roerich’s style and serves to heighten the symbolic and spiritual gravity of the narrative.
