Aum-mani-padme-hm is a Sanskrt mantra. It has been adapted into Sino-Tibetan Buddhism and Taoism, which explains why it is found in abundance in Buddhist devotional art. The thangka that you see on this page has the all-important syllable, aum, at its heart. Around the moola (fundamental) syllable develops a mandala. Roughly translated to universe, ‘mandala’ is a Sanskrt word and refers to the personal universe of a singular entity. As such, this thangka depicts the aum mandala.
Aum, as written in the Tibetan script, is at the very centre of the composition. An intricate network of motifs surrounds it, gathered in interconnecting quadrilaterals. Surrounded by a circular band on which are etched the typical shape of the rooftop of regional monasteries. A complex straight-lined shape contains this circlet. The space between these two is superimposed with luxuriant gold curves executed in remarkable detail and with perfect symmetry. The deep black colour of the background brings out the metallic colour of the densely lined mandala.
Each section of the mandala has been executed with a unique set of lines and curves. Such remarkable attention to detail and finesse are hallmarks of this traditional art. Handpicked from the ateliers of the finest thangka painters of today, such a work of art reflects good taste and an unusual aesthetic sense.
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