18th C. Tibetan Thangka – Shakyamuni Buddha (Auction 2026-06-05, Lot 194)

$514.00

Central Asia, Tibet, ca. 18th century CE. A richly detailed thangka depicting Shakyamuni Buddha, the historical founder of Buddhism, seated in dhyanasana (lotus position) and performing the bhumisparsha mudra – the earth-touching gesture that marks his moment of enlightenment. Calm and immovable, he anchors the composition at its center, framed by a radiant mandorla and elaborate aureole of swirling clouds and flame-like motifs. Surrounding him is a sacred assembly: arhats and attendants populate the celestial landscape, each rendered with individualized posture and expression, forming a visual testament to the transmission of Buddhist teaching. At the lower register appear the Kings of the Four Directions, guardian deities who preside over the cardinal realms, reinforcing the cosmic order under the Buddha’s awakened authority. Size of painting: 27″ W x 32″ H (68.6 cm x 81.3 cm); of thangka: 38″ W x 46.5″ H (96.5 cm x 118.1 cm)

Executed in mineral pigments on cloth, the painting balances intricate linework with saturated color – deep reds, greens, and softened gold tones. The composition unfolds as both narrative and cosmological diagram, guiding the viewer from the earthly realm below to the enlightened presence above. The thangka remains housed within its original textile mounting, bordered by silk brocade and fitted with a protective silk cover, underscoring its role as a portable devotional object used in ritual and meditation.

Provenance: private Houston, Texas, USA collection

Condition: Adhered to dowel via foil tape. Repainted and retouched in areas; low levels (2-4%) of zinc and titanium detectable in white pigments. Tears, pulls, and losses to silk as shown, as well as creasing, chipping to pigments, staining, and discoloring in areas. Rich patina throughout. Good remains of imagery and liberal remains of detail. Suspension rope at top for display.