The artwork entitled “Strongholds of Tibet (study)” was created by Nicholas Roerich in the year 1932. Executed on paper using tempera, the piece is a notable example of Symbolism within the landscape genre. The dimensions of the artwork are 10 by 18.5 centimeters. It is currently housed at the Nicholas Roerich Museum in New York City, NY, USA.
The artwork portrays a series of Tibetan fortifications nestled against a vibrant and rugged mountainous landscape. The use of tempera allows for a rich and textured application of colors, with shades of yellow, purple, and brown blending harmoniously to evoke the spiritual and mystical essence of Tibet. The strongholds, depicted in a stylized and somewhat abstract manner, seem to merge seamlessly with the natural environment, suggesting a profound unity between human constructs and nature. The artistic approach reflects the Symbolist movement’s penchant for imbuing the natural world with deeper, often mystical significance.