May/June Heart of Glastonbury - Magazine - Page 27
What is 'Thangka'?
The Tibetan word 'thangka'
means an unfolding painting,
where the word 'thang'
stands for an unfolding
scroll and 'ka' means a
painting. Thangka
Tell
us about as
yourself
andare
who
paintings,
a whole,
you
are?
visual representations of
Buddhas, Bodhisattvas,
Buddhist deities, scenes, or
mandalas, painted on silk or
cotton canvas. Originally,
thangka is a hanging scroll
which consists of a painted
or embroidered picture
panel. However, the modern
thangka can also be
manifested in many other
forms.
Thangka paintings follow a
generic principle of
composition, design, and
iconography. They are made
following traditional
guidelines while leaving
space for personal creativity
and expression. In Buddhist
culture, thangka paintings
hold high religious values.
In a way, it also serves as a
guide for contemplative
experience and
visualization, facilitating
the realization of one's true
nature or enlightenment.
The Thangka of
Padmasambhava
This is a high-quality
thangka of Padmasambhava,
characterized by its
iconographic accuracy and
incredibly fine detailing.
The intricate art lining and
golden work are clearly
visible.
Padmasambhava’s thangkas
typically depict him seated
at the center, holding a
vajra in his right hand,
while his left hand holds a
skull-cup along with the vase
of longevity, filled with the
nectar of deathless wisdom,
with a khatvanga trident
leaning against his left
shoulder.
His tantric dharma hat
bears symbols of the sun and
crescent moon, signifying
his Yogic achievements and
the union of wisdom and
compassion. The eagle
feather at the top
symbolizes the highest level
of enlightenment he has
attained.
This thangka adheres closely
to Buddhist texts and
iconographic details,
ensuring an accurate
representation of all the
attributes necessary for
spiritual practice.