Ritual crown (diadem) c. 18th century

childish illustration

egg art

henna art

hand painting

fluid art

tattoo

naive art

tattoo art

watercolour illustration

doodle art

This 18th-century ritual crown, or diadem, is a striking example of Tibetan craftsmanship. The intricate design features a series of five panels, each adorned with a painted figure of a Buddhist deity. The panels are connected by a black leather band with an intricate pattern of gold leaf and red paint, highlighting the religious significance of the piece. The crown, currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, demonstrates the rich cultural heritage of Tibet and showcases the masterful skill of anonymous Tibetan artisans.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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Buddhist priests and monks wear crowns, or diadems, like this during certain religious ceremonies, especially priestly initiation rites. One of the Five Cosmic Buddhas decorates each panel, which are arranged as on a mandala, or cosmic diagram. On the far left, Amoghasiddhi (green) represents north, and on the far right, Ratnasabhava (yellow) represents south. Vairochana, the white deity and principal cosmic buddha, presides over the center with a gesture of exposition. When crowned and seated in the proper direction, the priest creates and enters a living mandala.