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Thangkas are traditional Buddhist paintings that are made on cotton or silk fabric and are hung on the walls of Tibetan Buddhist temples and monasteries for decoration and prayer purposes. They depict the pictures of the Buddha and the Bodhisattva in a meditating state which the Buddhist Vajrayana devotees use as a guide to increase the absorption in their meditation practices. They are known for the elaborate and complex compositions of the deities to provide an understanding of the Tibetan religion. The paintings are typically very colorful and extremely beautiful to look at.
The collection of Thangka paintings that you see on this page displays the iconography of Vajrasattva, a highly revered Bodhisattva in Vajrayana Buddhism who represents the quality of purity. In the Tantric Buddhist tradition, he is regarded as the ideal guru (spiritual master). He is portrayed as seated on a lotus throne, wearing the robes of a Bodhisattva, a beautiful crown on his head and decked up with ornaments. A Vajra, thunderbolt, is seen held up in his right hand while the other hand holds an upturned bell on his hip. His youthful body and the serene expressions on his face enchant the hearts of the Buddhist followers who meditate upon him.
Some of the distinctive features of these Thangka paintings are as follows:
They are coated with pure 24 Carat Gold which adds an extra element of aesthetics to the paintings making them look opulent and attractive to the eyes.
The drawing of figures is based on the Nepalese style, the background landscapes and sceneries are based on the Chinese style, while the ornaments and costumes are based on the Indian style.
Majority of the compositions are complex and highly geometric and are based on line drawing.
This brilliant art indeed has a far-reaching influence and has varied varieties and features that make it stand out from other traditional illustrative paintings. At Exotic India, we offer you this vast collection of Vajrasattva Thangkas to choose your favourite one and create a spiritual atmosphere while also decorating the walls of your home or workspace.
Q. What is the purpose of Vajrasattva Thangka painting?
Vajrasattva Thangkas hold great spiritual significance in the Buddhist pantheon. Sincere Buddhist practitioners use them as visual aids to connect with the transcendental qualities of Vajrasattva such as purity and wisdom to go higher in their spiritual journey. They are displayed in monasteries, temples, and homes of Buddhists as a tool to focus on their meditation and other spiritual practices.
Q. How should I care for a Thangka painting?
Since Thangkas are delicate in nature, they must be kept in a dry place where moisture cannot affect the silk fabric and paint colors. It is advised to frame them so that they may stay protected and last up to several years.
Q. Are there specific guidelines for making Thangkas?
Yes, Thangkas are either painted by Buddhist monks or by laymen under the supervision of lamas. Making a Thangka painting requires a great amount of skill and knowledge as every single feature represents an aspect of the principles of Buddhism. Artists are trained as there goes perfect craftsmanship and a deep understanding of the symbols, figures, and deities to capture the spirit of it.
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