Antique Tibetan Thangka, Painted on Cloth. Depicts Amitabha Buddha.

Overall size: 44 3/4 X 30 3/4 in.

Sight size: 39 X 25 1/4 in.

#1470 .

A thangka is a Tibetan Buddhist painting on cotton or silk applique, usually depicting a Buddhist deity, scene, or mandala. Thangkas are traditionally kept unframed and rolled up when not on display, mounted on a textile backing somewhat in the style of Chinese scroll paintings, with a further silk cover on the front. So treated, thangkas can last a long time, but because of their delicate nature, they have to be kept in dry places where moisture will not affect the quality of the silk. They are designed to be displayed for brief periods on a monastery wall as part of religious festivals. Most thangkas are intended for personal meditation or instruction of monastic students. They often have elaborate compositions including many very small figures. A central deity is often surrounded by other identified figures in a symmetrical composition. Amitabha is the principal Buddha of Pure Land Buddhism, known for his longevity, discernment, pure perception, and deep awareness of the emptiness of all phenomena. The name Amitabha means “Infinite Light.” This image is unique in having been framed, although it is difficult to tell exactly when it was created, or for what monastery and by whom.

Location BB