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Iconographic Drawing of Tantric Enlightened Beings (verso), c. 1500. Creator: Unknown
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Iconographic Drawing of Tantric Enlightened Beings (verso), c. 1500. Creator: Unknown
Iconographic Drawing of Tantric Enlightened Beings (verso), c. 1500. These rare surviving pages of a practice book have drawings of prominent tantric figures. The line drawing is confident and masterful, with each iconographic element rendered with clarity and precision. The svelte proportions of the figures follow the style of the Khyenri school initiated in the second half of the 15th century by the artist Khyentse Wangchuk (about 1420-1500), known for his elegant and energetic depictions of the fierce manifestations of the enlightened beings. The best preserved example on this segment is the blue Hevajra in sexual union with Nairatmya, shown in a deeper shade of blue. Chakrashamvara, another powerful emanation of a Buddha, is at the left with his consort Vajravarahi, holding a variety of weapons, tantric implements, and an elephant skin representing the defeat of uncontrolled passions in his twelve hands. The buffalo-headed figure at the right is Yamantaka, a powerful form of the Bodhisattva of Wisdom. Tantric practitioners invoke this deity to aid in conquering fear of death, one of the most powerful hindrances to enlightenment
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Media ID 19634237
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This print showcases an Iconographic Drawing of Tantric Enlightened Beings, believed to have been created around the year 1500 by an unknown artist. These pages, extracted from a rare practice book, offer a glimpse into the world of tantric figures and their significance in spiritual practices. The skillful line drawing exudes confidence and mastery, with each iconographic element meticulously rendered with clarity and precision. The slender proportions of the figures adhere to the distinctive style pioneered by Khyentse Wangchuk, an esteemed artist from the Khyenri school during the latter half of the 15th century. Wangchuk was renowned for his elegant and dynamic portrayals of fierce manifestations of enlightened beings. Amongst these preserved segments, one can observe a striking depiction of Hevajra in union with Nairatmya. Rendered in a deeper shade of blue, this powerful representation exemplifies their sacred connection. Adjacent to them stands Chakrashamvara alongside his consort Vajravarahi, brandishing various weapons and tantric implements as symbols representing control over unruly passions. At the rightmost side looms Yamantaka - a formidable figure adorned with a buffalo head - embodying wisdom as a Bodhisattva form. Devotees turn to Yamantaka for assistance in overcoming fear towards death; an obstacle that hinders progress on the path towards enlightenment. This photograph is brought to you by Heritage Art/Heritage Images and serves as both an artistic marvel and historical artifact that sheds light on ancient tantric traditions without any commercial intent or affiliation mentioned within its context.
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