On the lake Shop Pangalo 

Nicholas Roerich painted "On the lake. Shop Pangalo" with tempera on cardboard, a departure from traditional oil on canvas. Tempera is a fast-drying medium, often made from egg yolk, which lends the painting its distinctive matte finish and vibrant, yet soft colors. Roerich's technique involves layering these tempera paints to create a sense of depth and texture, especially noticeable in the rendering of the rocks and water. The materiality of tempera, with its quick-drying properties, demanded a swift and decisive approach, likely influencing Roerich's simplification of forms and bold color choices. This choice of material reflects Roerich's broader interest in exploring ancient techniques, connecting his art to cultural and spiritual traditions beyond the Western canon. It moves away from the established norms of the fine arts, and brings it closer to the realm of craft. Appreciating this element of making is essential to understanding the painting's unique aesthetic and its place within Roerich's artistic vision.