Sketch made by travelling in Italy and Switzerland

Nicholas Roerich’s 1906 artwork, titled Sketch made by travelling in Italy and Switzerland, exemplifies his engagement with the Symbolism movement and his dedication to capturing spiritual and natural themes. As a sketch and study, the piece reflects Roerich’s practice of working en plein air during his travels, focusing on immediate impressions. The technique emphasizes expressive line work and tonal subtlety, characteristic of sketches that serve as preparatory studies. The artwork belongs to the genre of travel sketches, documenting landscapes and atmospheres encountered across Italy and Switzerland with a contemplative, symbolic approach.