A Massive Thangka of Shakyamuni

Tibet, Late 19th/Early20th century

Tibet, Late 19th/Early20th century
Distemper on cloth; the golden-skinned Buddha seated in dhyanasana holding his hands in dharmachakrapavartina mudra, attired in monks robes open at the chest but covering both shoulders, reversed by an orange and blue mandorla and surrounded by six arhats all upon an intricately rendered cloud and smoke ground now framed and glazed.
72 1/2in (184cm) height exclusive of frame

Completed with fine gold lines patterning his garments, ornamenting his green halo, and envisaging the enlightened rays radiating from his body, consistent with a style developed in Beijing, this thangka would have likely served as the centerpiece of a three-part set depicting Shakyamuni with the sixteen arhats. Of impressive size, it might have been displayed within a large monastic audience hall, or outside before the local community during certain festivals.