The artwork titled “Mongolian tsam” by Nicholas Roerich, created in 1928, uses tempera on canvas and belongs to the Symbolism movement. Measuring 90 x 143.5 cm, this genre painting is housed in the Roerich Museum in Moscow, Russia.
The artwork visually encapsulates a ceremonial Mongolian ritual known as “tsam,” characterized by its spiritual and symbolic significance. The painting depicts a lineup of intricately adorned figures against the backdrop of large, vibrant thangka paintings, central to Buddhist iconography. The figures, likely monks, are engaged in a ritualistic dance or meditation, emphasized by their synchronized postures and attire. The rich use of color, meticulous detailing, and solemn ambiance within the composition reflects Roerich’s dedication to capturing cultural and spiritual reverence. The scene is outdoors, likely portraying a sacred or traditional gathering space, enveloped in an atmosphere of mysticism and intensity, intrinsic to Mongolian culture and Buddhist practices. The composition invites the observer to delve into the profound depths of cultural rituals and the enduring legacy they leave within the fabric of heritage.
