Messenger of Beauty: The Life and Visionary Art of Nicholas Roerich [Paperback]

Jacqueline Decter Ph.D. (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 1, 1997

A celebration of the artist, mystic, and Nobel nominee Nicholas Roerich, whose life and work significantly influenced the development of modern art and culture.

Messenger of Beauty opens the door to the mystical world of Nicholas Roerich and invites us to witness his far-reaching vision. Artist, writer, educator, archaeologist, explorer, mystic, and peacemaker, Roerich (1874-1947) left a rich legacy of some 7,000 paintings, drawings, and set and costume designs (most notably for Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring); 30 books on the mystic East; and countless articles and lectures. The Roerich Peace Pact--a remarkable treaty signed by President Roosevelt and 26 other heads of state that sought to preserve cultural monuments during times of war--earned the artist a nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize. Messenger of Beauty includes 88 color plates that cover the full scope of Roerich's artistic career, from ancient Slavic, mythic, and archaeological subjects to breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and religious themes that span the spiritual traditions of the world. 

First paperback edition of Nicholas Roerich: The Life and Art of a Russian Master 

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Roerich's vision is a pantheistic hymn to a union of man and nature."
(Anna Kisselgoff, The New York Times? )

"Highly recommended."
(Library Journal? )

"...outstanding serious new volume...Roerich's collaboration with Nijinsky, Stravinsky, and Diaghilev changed the history of dance."
(The Boston Globe )

About the Author

Jacqueline Decter, Ph.D. is a scholar of Russian literature who translated many original texts into English for inclusion in this edition. She is a senior editor at Abbeville Press.

Product Details

• Paperback: 192 pages
• Publisher: Park Street Press (November 1, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0892814934
• ISBN-13: 978-0892814930
• Product Dimensions: 10.5 x 10.5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #855,400 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

29 of 29 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A fascinating biograpy with over 80 paintings reproduced., January 17, 1999

By 

Paul Huston ([e-mail]) (Encinitas, CA,) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Messenger of Beauty: The Life and Visionary Art of Nicholas Roerich (Paperback)

If you are looking for a book about the life and art of Nicholas Roerich or if you are looking for a fascinating account of a modern mystic, one of the great men of this time, this is it. The book contains over 80 of his paintings, drawings and theatrical set designs. The biographical accounting is fascinating and inspiring. I found this book very enjoyable and highly recommend it. Also suggest checking out the web site of the Nicholas Roerich museum in N.Y. city. Paul Huston

23 of 23 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Constant Source of Inspiration, September 17, 2000

By 

Mr. F. E. Perry (UK) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Messenger of Beauty: The Life and Visionary Art of Nicholas Roerich (Paperback)

This is an excellent book on the beautiful and inspiring paintings of Russian artist Nicholas Roerich. Exceptional value with 88 colour reproductions of his work. The written material is faultless and fascinating. Roerich was dedicated to Beauty and I find that whenever I dip into this book I am completely captivated by his ability to speak to my innermost heart and spirit through the language of colour and the rich symbolism of his paintings. Fascinated by the legends of Shambhala and the wisdom of the ancients, Roerich's paintings and Decter's words take us on a wonderful journey that will enrich our lives. Roerich was a very deeply spiritual man and so his paintings serve this higher purpose. If you wish to light the inner fire of your spirit through art and beauty, then this is the book for you.

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Nicholas Roerich, February 11, 2007

By 

Christine - See all my reviews

This review is from: Messenger of Beauty: The Life and Visionary Art of Nicholas Roerich (Paperback)

This is an exquisitely beautiful book and immediately transports one to 'another dimention'. Roerich's paintings,his unusual use of colour and hues capture a luminous quality that speaks to the soul. His writing, paintings and travels are a true inspiration of the human spirit.