Pass – Storm # 96 (pass. Storm) Roerich N.K. (Part 4)

The work presents a landscape dominated by imposing geological formations. Here we observe a series of peaks and ridges rendered in muted purples, blues, and whites against a warm, ochre-toned background. The artist employed a simplified, almost geometric approach to the depiction of these mountains, eschewing detailed rendering for an emphasis on form and volume. The planes are distinct, creating a sense of angularity and solidity.
A sloping terrain occupies the lower left quadrant, leading up towards the base of the mountain range. A band of darker color suggests shadow or perhaps a different geological layer. At the foot of the mountains, three small figures appear, dwarfed by the scale of their surroundings. Their presence serves to emphasize the immensity and power of nature. They are indistinct, almost silhouettes, suggesting vulnerability and insignificance in the face of such grandeur.
The color palette is restrained, contributing to a somber and contemplative mood. The warm background contrasts with the cooler tones of the mountains, creating visual interest while maintaining an overall sense of melancholy. Theres a lack of atmospheric perspective; depth isn’t suggested through subtle shifts in color or detail, which further flattens the composition and reinforces the feeling of monumental presence.
Subtexts within this painting seem to revolve around themes of human insignificance against the backdrop of natural forces. The mountains are not merely scenery but symbols of an overwhelming power that transcends human comprehension. The small figures could be interpreted as representing humanity’s struggle for understanding or survival in a world governed by unpredictable and potentially destructive elements. There is a sense of isolation, both physical and existential, conveyed through the vastness of the landscape and the solitary presence of the figures.