AN 18th CENTURY THANGKA OF GURU RINPOCHE IN ZANGDOK PALRI
Distemper and gold paint on cloth, framed by segmented silk brocade mounting, framed behind glassTibet, presumably 18th century, maybe earlier This thangka shows the detailed motif of Guru Rinpoche / Padmasambhava in his pureland, the so-called Zangdok Palri. Amidst lush vegetation we see the central image of Guru Rinpoche with his classical attributes, a vajra and a kapala, in his hands. He is flanked by two attendants and above his head is a miniature portrayal of Buddha. Zangdok Palri, known as the Glorious Copper-Colored Mountain, is the terrestrial Pure Land of Guru Padmasambhava (also known as Guru Rinpoche). Zangdok Palri is located on the southeastern subcontinent Chamara (sometimes identified with Sri Lanka), which was an untamed abode of demons until Guru Padmasambhava subdued them and transformed them into compassionate beings by means of his miraculous powers. It is believed that Guru Padmasambhava lives today, in an indestructible body, in his palace atop the Copper-Colored Mountain.Shape: Rectangular vertical shapeDimensions: 58.5 x 39 cm (frame), 40 x 29 cm (image cut-out)Condition: Shows extensive creases, abrasions and surface scratches as well as soilingProvenance: German private Collection – old gallery description on backside