PAWANA SHRESTHA
A culture started in the 15th century, Thangka art is known to be a very refined and precise painting that depicts various Gods and Goddesses. It resembles the Buddhist and the Tibetan religion. Devotees believe that there exists a particular God, to worship, for a particular problem that the devotees have.
A culture started in the 15th century, Thangka art is known to be a very refined and precise painting that depicts various Gods and Goddesses. It resembles the Buddhist and the Tibetan religion. Devotees believe that there exists a particular God, to worship, for a particular problem that the devotees have.
The caste ‘Chitrakar’, from the Newar community of Nepal, was the first who started the Thangka painting. The caste itself translates to ‘artists’. Thangka painting is a traditional skill that is passed on through generations.
Original Thangka art in Nepal is made using colors of gemstones and finished with gold. Original Thangka paintings are made with proper rules and guidance, like painting the eyes at the last, and the completion of the art is followed by a certain ritual as the colors are no longer just a painting but resemble the soul of the Deity. Such delicate original Thangka takes months to be completed. There are many rules to follow while painting particular shrines.
They are also known as Paubhas, meaning that they carry a message from the temple. They are of two types. One, as mentioned above, particularly devoted to deities and the other the Mandala. Mandalas are art that is made using delicate shapes and designs of the circle. These arts are not framed like other arts, rather they are made in silk, embroidery, or applique, therefore, rolled when not displayed.
Since this art form holds significant religious importance, each Thangka painting holds its message and carries spiritual importance and benefits. Therefore, many aspire to own an original piece of art. The market for Thangka art has been flourishing in both national and international tourists. Since, if you want to get one for more than just a decorative piece, doing prior research on the art could help you to choose what kind of Thangka would better suit you.
The Thangka paintings’ price varies from size, the detailed work that is required, and the originality it carries. The originals might range from $1000 to $15,000. However, due to increasing demand also for decorative purposes, we can find copies of such arts, solely established for business purpose. They can be found at a much affordable price than mentioned above.
And to promote the art, institutions are being operated that provide training and classes for learning Thangka.
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