Lot 35A
Central Asia, Tibet, ca. late 18th to 19th Century CE. A large hand-painted canvas thangka panel depicting Avalokiteshvara, the eleven-headed and thousand-armed Bodhisattva known as Chenrezig in Tibet. Avalokiteshvara, a revered figure in Himalayan Buddhism, is represented in the eleven-headed, "thousand-armed" depiction - the white aureole framing the figure consists of numerous outstretched arms, while additional protective deities and lamas appear above and below. Each head, eye, and hand on Avalokiteshvara symbolize the capacity to perceive, listen to, and assist countless sentient beings in myriad ways. Professionally mounted in a wooden frame under glass, this exquisite thangka is ready for display. Size of Painted Thangka: 32.5" L x 51.5" H (82.6 cm x 130.8 cm); frame: 37.5" L x 2" W x 56.75" H (95.2 cm x 5.1 cm x 144.1 cm)
Avalokiteshvara, also known as Chenrezig, Lokeshvara, or the Bodhisattva of Compassion, is often depicted with a thousand arms to symbolize his ability to assist all sentient beings. The story of how he obtained these arms varies across different Buddhist traditions, but one common narrative is as follows: After witnessing the immense suffering of beings in the world, Avalokiteshvara vowed to help alleviate their pain. He initially attempted to help with his own limited resources but quickly realized that his single pair of arms was insufficient to reach and assist everyone in need. In response to this realization, he prayed for the ability to help more effectively. As a result of his profound compassion and dedication, Avalokiteshvara received a thousand arms from the Buddhas, enabling him to extend his reach and support countless beings simultaneously. Each of these arms is often depicted with an eye on the palm, symbolizing his awareness and ability to see the suffering of all beings, ensuring that no one is overlooked in his compassionate endeavors. This transformation emphasizes the core Buddhist ideals of compassion and the Bodhisattva's commitment to aiding others, demonstrating the power of altruistic intent and the importance of responding to the needs of all sentient beings.
This item is heavy/oversized. Please inquire about shipping costs prior to bidding.
Provenance: ex-private Evergreen, Colorado, USA collection, acquired in 2010
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#189898
- Condition: Water stains and discoloration. Two small holes along one side. Some wear to pigment layers, and fading. Overall great condition for age. Professionally mounted in a wooden frame under glass and ready to display.
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| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |