06/07/2026
What is a Cintamini and a Lung Ta?
"A depiction of the Cintamani being carried by the Lung Ta (Wind Horse)" is a 1936 Symbolist painting by Russian artist Nicholas Roerich, portraying the mythical winged horse bearing the wish-fulfilling jewel of enlightenment. This artwork symbolizes energy, fortune, and the aspiration for a golden age or higher consciousness.
The painting features the Lung Ta (Wind Horse), which represents the human soul's swiftness, energy, and capacity to overcome obstacles.
The Cintamani Stone, carried on the horse's back, is a "wish-fulfilling jewel,’ that is a sacred, glowing, or flaming treasure. It symbolizes, in both Buddhist and esoteric traditions (such as those studied by Nicholas Roerich), the embodiment of wisdom, compassion, and the potential to bring about a new, enlightened era. Nicholas Roerich often depicted the legend of the Cintamani stone being returned to the mythical kingdom of Shambhala.
The painting combines the Lung Ta's role in bringing good fortune with the ultimate spiritual goal of enlightenment (the jewel).
Nicholas Roerich (1874-1947) was a well-known artist, archaeologist, author, scholar, lecturer, costume and set designer, poet, mystic, and explorer during his life in Russia and eventually, the United States. He and his wife, Helena Roerich, served during the early twentieth century as amanuenses for the ascended masters El Morya and Maitreya. Nicholas ascended at the conclusion of that lifetime. Helena is still in embodiment.