Buddhist Ritual Card (Tsakali) by Anonymous

Buddhist Ritual Card (Tsakali) 1200 - 1300

toned paper

childish illustration

cartoon like

cartoon sketch

personal sketchbook

watercolour illustration

cartoon style

cartoon carciture

sketchbook art

watercolor

This small, anonymous "Tsakali" card from the 13th century is a wonderful example of Tibetan Buddhist devotional art. It depicts a figure in meditation posture with a halo behind their head, which is characteristic of depictions of Buddhist saints. The card's size and format suggest that it was likely used for personal prayer or ritual practice. The simple design and bright colors would have aided in the user's contemplation and connection to the spiritual realm. The card, now housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, provides insight into Tibetan Buddhist practices and iconography of the period.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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These small, beautifully painted cards were used in Tibetan Buddhist initiation ceremonies or temple consecrations. They would have been arranged on a platform before a deity, along with other offerings and adornments.The front of each card has an image of a deity or lama painted in brilliant red wash and applied gold foil on the front, while the back is inscribed with a mantra related to the depicted individual. These particular paintings are from a well known set of at least thirty cards made for the third Abbot of Taglung in Tibet, Sangye Yarjon (1203-72). Yarjon is credited with having warded off Mongol invasions in Tibet by teaching the potential invaders the Buddhist doctrine.