"In the distance, all trembles in a radiant rainbow of fumes... Hills are painted with gold. You are so beautiful, Asia! It is your turn. Take the Chalice of the World."
N. Roerich. Altai – Himalayas.
"Of course, it is difficult to talk about the whole of Central Asia in detail. But in fragmentary characteristics, we can note the current state of these vast areas and look back at the monuments of its glorious past. As everywhere, you can find, one one hand, some remarkable monuments and an exquisite way of thinking, expressed on the basis of ancient wisdom, and the friendliness of human relations. You can enjoy the beauty and can be easily understood. But in the same places, do not be surprised, if you are horrified by perverted forms of religion, ignorance, signs of decline and degeneration... Surely, as an artist, I had the main aspiration to the artistic activity. It is hard to imagine when I will be able to translate all the artistic notes and experiences – so generous are these gifts of Asia."
N. Roerich. The Heart of Asia.