Buddhist Symbolism In Tibetan Thangkas: The Story Of Siddhartha And Other Buddhas Interpreted In Modern Nepalese Painting

Book Summary

The thangka, literally "something that can be rolled up", originated as a way for Tibetan Buddhist monks to bring the life and teachings of the Buddha to the people through the visual medium of paint. These paintings were rolled up and taken on journeys, used as traveling altars, or hung when certain deities were honored. Because old thangkas are very expensive, an increasing number of Nepalese and Tibetan artists are creating modern thangkas to meet the demand for this inspirational art, giving a new generation access to these spiritual paintings. But what do these fantastic images mean? In this sumptuously illustrated book, Ben Meulenbeld takes us through 37 thangkas that present a pictorial journey of the life of Buddha, Siddhartha Guatama, and the evolution of Tibetan Buddhism. In addition to attracting people who are curious about Buddhist imagery, this introductory book will help new collectors make informed purchases by providing an awareness of the quality of the symbolism appearing in contemporary thangkas. Collectors will be able to recognize whether a thangka is a coherent composition of accurately portrayed deities, or if it is a slap-dash amalgamation of unrelated symbols. Meulenbeld points out the primary Buddhist symbols and explains the ritual and the religious concepts they represent. He provides a thoroughly enjoyable way to absorb some of the more complicated concepts of Tibetan Buddhism. Learn how to recognize the various buddhas and their guises and consorts! The fierce images of yidams, for example, which may frighten some people, are actually visually externalized components of the self in its struggle to conquer spiritual darkness. They become a comfort inthe Western context of "name your demons and they disappear". In reaction to the Western over-intellectualization of many aspects of life -- particularly the spiritual -- people now seek a more personal understanding of the spiritual path. Because of this, the thangka is experiencing a rebirth as a teaching tool. Today's seeker can now relate to the universal nature of Tibetan Buddhist symbols in a bold new way! The thangka is a way for Tibetan Buddhist monks to bring the life and teachings of the Buddha to the people through the visual medium of paint. These paintings were rolled up and taken on journeys, used as traveling altars, or hung when certain deitieswere honored. Meulenbeld takes us through 37 thangkas that present a pictorial journey of the life of Buddha, Siddhartha Guatama, and the evolution of Tibetan Buddhism. 37 color plates. Glossary. Bibliography. Index.

Book Details