Shakyamuni Buddha Thangka – Earth Witness Assembly – Path to Enlightenment

Iconography & Sacred Assembly to Path to Enlightenment

This Thangka presents the complete assembly surrounding the Shakyamuni Buddha.

Each figure expresses awakened energy, creating a harmonious field of blessing.

Central Figure – Shakyamuni Buddha

At the heart of this Thangka sits Shakyamuni Buddha—calm, luminous, and fully awake.

Their golden skin shines with supreme awareness, reminding you that clarity lives within.

• Gesture: Bhumisparsha Mudra (earth-touching) — the moment compassion becomes action.

• Sacred Object: Begging bowl (filled with nectars) — a symbol of simplicity and conquering temptation.

• Presence: Peaceful and majestic — radiating the wisdom of enlightenment.

Back of the Throne – Elephants and Mythical Creatures

The throne back features symbolic guardians. These elements represent the stability of the dharma.

• Base: Lions symbolize the Buddha's roar of truth.

• Sides: Elephants represent stability and majesty.

• Mid-level: Mythical creatures and dragons depict attendants.

• Upper-level: Garuda and Nagas harmonize elemental energies.

Top Buddhas – Amoghasiddhi and Vairocana

At the very top, two Dhyani Buddhas preside over the scene.

Amoghasiddhi and Vairocana symbolize profound wisdoms.

• Amoghasiddhi: Represents the wisdom of all-accomplishing action.

• Vairocana: Embodies the wisdom of the ultimate reality.

Lower Figures – Chief Disciples

Two standing disciples are positioned below the main throne.

These are Shariputra and Maudgalyayana, the Buddha's primary monastic followers.

• Role: Guides practitioners, embodying the monastic community's importance.

Sacred Background & Landscape

Shakyamuni appears within a naturalistic setting.

The scene mirrors the mind's own clarity.

• Style: Naturalistic background with blue clouds

• Visual Symbols: Mountains = stability; Gold = divine light; Water = purity

• Spiritual Meaning: Represents purity of awareness.

Artisan Mastery

Hand-painted by a master from the Kathmandu Valley, this Thangka blends refined craftsmanship and devotion.

Each stroke is both artwork and prayer.

• Tradition: Newar style influence, known for rich details.

• Aesthetic Tone: Rich tones, balanced space, jewel-like color.

• Technique: Hand-painted layer by layer with pure 24K gold illumination.

• Spirit: Created as a devotional act to inspire peace.

Spiritual Application

This Thangka is a living support for meditation.

Gazing upon Shakyamuni Buddha awakens compassion within your heart.

• Heart Mantra: OM MUNI MUNI MAHAMUNIYE SVAHA — invokes peace.

• Meditation: Visualize light filling your heart with radiance.

• Blessing: Radiates peace and wisdom to sanctify your space.

• Purpose: A daily gateway for reflection and inner strength.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 80 x 50 cm (vertical)

• Materials: 24K Gold, Natural Mineral Pigments

• Canvas: Traditionally Prepared Cotton Canvas

• Origin: Kathmandu, Nepal

• Artistic Style: Menri Style (Tibetan)

• Consecration: Available Upon Request