“Heat of the Earth,” created by Nicholas Roerich in 1918, is a symbolic painting that belongs to the Symbolism art movement. The artwork measures 48.3 x 50.2 cm and is housed in the Roerich Museum in Moscow, Russia.
The artwork exudes a profound sense of mysticism and otherworldliness, characteristic of Symbolism. Dominated by rich, dark hues with intense red and orange tones, it depicts a figure in crimson robes standing amidst a desolate, almost volcanic landscape. The figure’s commanding presence and the vivid depiction of a glowing, fiery substance beneath the earth suggest a connection to mystical or spiritual themes, possibly symbolizing the raw, transformative energy of the earth. The overall composition and color palette create a dynamic tension between the celestial and the terrestrial, evoking contemplation and reverence for the natural and transcendental forces at play.