Untitled

Unknown

late 15th century · Distemper, gold and ink on cloth · Asian Art

This painting represents the “six-syllables form” of Avalokiteshvara, evoking the mantra om mani padme hum. As expounded by the fourteenth Dalai Lama, om denotes the impurities that impede spiritual awareness; mani (jewel) symbolizes the pathway lit by compassion; padme (lotus) defines the tool, wisdom; and hum the indivisible union of wisdom and method—so achieving the purity of body, speech, and mind of Buddhahood. This fundamental teaching is given expression in the purity of this representation of the highest embodiment of compassion. The Dalai Lama is understood to be an incarnation of this form of Avalokiteshvara. Conventionally represented in white, Sadaksari-Lokeshvara is gold here, the most radiant of colors. Surrounding him are bodhisattvas, an array of protectors, and a lineage of monks.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 15th century

Medium

Distemper, gold and ink on cloth

Culture

Tibet

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Margery and Harry Kahn, 1985