Vairochana Buddha Thangka, Master Quality, Buddhist Traditional Painting, Newari Style

VAIROCHANA BUDDHA
Vairochana Buddha, also known as the Great Illuminator, is a central figure in Tibetan Buddhist tradition. As one of the Five Dhyani Buddhas, Vairochana represents the cosmic element of form and embodies the qualities of wisdom, purity, and compassion. Vairochana is believed to be the primordial Buddha, the essence of enlightenment, and the source of all Buddhas. This deity is revered for his ability to guide sentient beings toward awakening and liberation. Devotion to Vairochana Buddha is a significant aspect of Tibetan Buddhist practice.

NEWARI PAUBHA
This Vairochana Buddha is a newari thangka or Paubaha, Paubha, also known as “paubhas,” is a traditional religious painting created by the Newar people of Nepal. These exquisite artworks depict various subjects, including deities, mandalas, and monuments, and serve as aids for meditation and spiritual practices. Paubhas are similar to Tibetan Thangka paintings and are highly regarded for their religious and cultural significance.
While most paubhas portray Buddhist subjects, there are also a few that incorporate Hindu themes. The creation of these paintings is seen as a means of earning religious merit for both the artist and the patron. Newar Buddhists often commission skilled artists, primarily from the Chitrakar caste (known as Pun in Nepal Bhasa), to paint paubhas that are displayed during festivals and special occasions.

INTRODUCTION TO THANGKA
A thangka, also known as tangka, thanka, or tanka, is a vibrant and intricate Tibetan Buddhist painting that serves as a visual representation of spiritual teachings. Crafted with meticulous detail on cotton or silk appliqué, thangkas depict a wide range of subjects including Buddhist deities, sacred scenes, mandalas, and narrative stories. These sacred artworks are traditionally kept unframed and rolled up for storage, resembling ancient scrolls. To protect their delicate nature, thangkas are mounted on textile backings and often adorned with a silk cover on the front. Proper preservation in dry environments is crucial to maintain the integrity and longevity of the silk.