Hand-Painted Tibetan Mandala Thangka With Silk Brocade Mounting

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A radiant example of traditional Himalayan spiritual art, this hand-painted thangka features a detailed mandala surrounded by vivid depictions of … Read more A radiant example of traditional Himalayan spiritual art, this hand-painted thangka features a detailed mandala surrounded by vivid depictions of Buddhas, bodhisattvas, and guardian figures. Rendered in natural mineral pigments on treated cotton canvas, the central mandala serves as a symbolic map of the universe, used as a visual aid for meditation and contemplation.
A mandala is a geometric diagram used in Tibetan Buddhism to represent the cosmos or a sacred realm. At the center of this intricate composition sits an enlightened figure, surrounded by layers of symbolic architecture and deities. This sacred image is set within a thangka, a traditional Tibetan scroll painting mounted on rich silk brocade. The brocade features deep blue, olive, and maroon floral textiles with auspicious symbols, and includes a green silk curtain traditionally used to protect the sacred image from light and dust when not on display. The curtain also reflects spiritual respect, preserving the sanctity of the image and allowing it to be ritually unveiled during meditation or prayer.
Many of the characters written around the mandala are sacred seed syllables or mantras, such as "Om Mani Padme Hum," used for invoking compassion, or "Om Vajra Hung," linked to protection and inner strength. These syllables are not simply words, but sound-symbols used in spiritual practice to connect with specific energies or deities.
Likely made in Nepal in the 1970s or 1980s, this thangka was created in the Tibetan Buddhist style by a skilled artist trained in classical thangka painting. The textile mount is secured by two wrapped wooden rods, a traditional finishing touch that adds structure and visual balance.

The wood pole inside the bottom is 35.5” wide, and inside the top is 33.5” wide, 1.25” deep, 49.75” high, and the hanger adds about 3” of height. See less