“World’s Treasure (Cintamani)” is a mythological painting created by Nicholas Roerich in 1924. Executed with tempera on canvas, this work forms part of the Symbolism movement and is exhibited at the Nicholas Roerich Museum in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork depicts a mystical scene set amidst towering rock formations, characterized by their imposing and somewhat abstracted shapes. Central to the composition is a figure in the foreground, possibly representing a traveler or a guardian, accompanied by a laden horse or donkey. The focal point and source of illumination within the scene is a small, glowing object enshrined in a halo of radiant blue light, symbolizing the ‘Cintamani’ or “World’s Treasure.” The austere, rocky backdrop contributes to the mysterious and ethereal ambiance, further enhancing the mythological and symbolic elements inherent in this composition. Roerich’s use of tempera creates a rich, textural surface that accentuates the mystical quality of the scene.
