Southeast Asia, Sino-Chinese, ca. 18th century. This thangka features a central depiction of Guhyasamaja Akshobhyavajra Father Mother. Guhyasamaja Buddha symbolically represents the union of all of the Buddha clans and is head of the Akshobya clan. Je Tsong Khapa referred to the Guhyasamaja Tantra as "the king of all tantras". His main face is blue, the face on the right side is either yellow or gold and the face on the left is red and each is adorned with the third all seeing eye or wisdom eye. The three faces have varying interpretations: symbolizing the transmuted delusions of anger, ignorance and attachment; the three major channels of the vajra body; the purified minds, the increase and near attainment; and lastly the experience of illusory body, clear light and union. In this case, rather than three faces, the artist interpreted the deity with three figures, one to each side of Guhyasamaja Buddha. Inhabiting the rest of the composition are dozens of depictions of symbolic animals and deities sacred in the Buddhist faith. Custom frame and mat. Painting itself measures 25-1/2" x 31-3/4" (34" x 40" framed).

Provenance: Ex-private Burns collection, Longmont, CO, acquired in the 1950s-1960s. Mr. Burns is an accomplished mountain climber who scaled many of the highest peaks across the globe.

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#102072

Showing obvious signs of wear, but for the age quite exceptional. Frame shows a bit of loss and cracking. Proper conservation would significantly increase its value.