Sgrol-dkar (The White Tara or White Savioress) c. 18th century

This is a painting of Sgrol-dkar, The White Tara or White Savioress. The painting’s origins are unknown. Paintings such as this one have historically served as instruments for meditation, with the images acting as guides toward enlightenment. Here, Tara sits in serene contemplation, her white skin a traditional marker of purity, healing, and compassion. The lotus she sits upon is also symbolic, suggesting the potential for awakening residing within all of us. Note the eyes on her hands and feet, representing her all-seeing ability to perceive suffering. In a patriarchal world, Tara embodies the feminine divine, providing an alternative to conventional representations of power. Her presence underscores the significance of female energy and wisdom. The proliferation of such images reflect the growing influence of Buddhist thought, and speak to the enduring human longing for healing.