“St. Sergius the Builder,” created by Nicholas Roerich in 1925, is a religious painting belonging to the Symbolism art movement. Rendered in tempera on canvas, the artwork measures 73.6 x 177 cm and forms part of the “Banners of the East” series. It is presently held in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a serene and contemplative winter landscape dominated by tall, slender trees and a snow-covered hillside. At its center, a monk, representing St. Sergius, is shown laboring near a simple wooden structure topped with a cross, signifying a religious site amidst the wilderness. The surrounding forest is painted with cool blues and whites, creating a tranquil atmosphere while suggesting a deep connection between spirituality and nature. The presence of a bear adds a touch of mysticism, enhancing the symbolic essence that Roerich is renowned for.
