Shakyamuni Buddha Thangka (The Twelve Deeds of Enlightenment)

The Story in the Details

• Dimensions: 60 x 100 cm
• Sacred Materials: Genuine 24K Gold, Hand-Ground Mineral Pigments, Black Cotton Canvas (Nagthang Style)
• Hand-Painted In: Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
• Artistic Tradition: Newari / Fine Gold Line Style
• Framing: Unframed
• A Unique Creation: Original, one-of-a-kind devotional painting.
• Consecration: Available on request

Iconography: A Visual Dharma Teaching

Shakyamuni Buddha is a guide for your inner journey. 
He is the historical Awakened One, representing the potential for enlightenment that exists within every being. 

This artwork is a "Nagthang" (Black Thangka), where the black background symbolizes the absolute nature of reality (emptiness), and the gold lines represent the illuminating light of wisdom.

• Sacred Form: 
  His radiant Golden body glows against the deep black background. 
  It transforms the darkness of ignorance into the brilliant light of pure awareness.
• Posture: 
  He is seated in the Vajra (Lotus) posture. This reflects a perfect balance of profound peace and dynamic readiness to act.
• Mudras (Hand Gestures): 
  The right hand forms the Bhumisparsha Mudra, a gesture of touching the earth to witness his enlightenment. 
  The left hand rests in the lap holding an alms bowl.
• Attributes: 
  He holds a Begging Bowl (Patra), a powerful symbol of the renunciation of worldly attachment and the holding of spiritual nectar.

The Sacred Assembly

This thangka presents a complete mandala of awakening, depicting the "Twelve Deeds" of the Buddha—the major milestones of his life that serve as teaching examples for us all.

• Central Deity – Shakyamuni Buddha 
  At the heart is Shakyamuni Buddha, embodying the ultimate goal of Enlightenment and anchoring the entire composition in stillness.

The Narrative Circles (The 12 Deeds) Surrounding the center are detailed circular vignettes (roundels) connected by a flowing golden landscape.

• Birth and Youth: 
  Scenes depict his miraculous birth in Lumbini and his early life as a prince in the palace.
• The Great Renunciation: 
  Scenes showing him leaving the palace, cutting his hair, and seeking the truth in the forest.
• Turning the Wheel: 
  Vignettes showing the Buddha teaching the Dharma to his disciples.
• Parinirvana: 
  The final scenes depict his passing into Nirvana, reminding the viewer of impermanence.

The Dragon Borders 

Top and Bottom: Fierce Golden Dragons frame the horizontal artwork. 
They represent the thunderous power of the Dharma and protection over the sacred teachings.

The Living Landscape of the Mind

The deity resides within a sacred environment that mirrors the nature of the enlightened mind.

• Background Style: 
  The Luminous Nagthang style represents the ultimate truth of emptiness from which all beauty arises.
• Symbolic Elements: 
  Golden Clouds and Rocks signify the solid foundation of ethical discipline and the vast, limitless nature of awareness.
• Sacred Realm: 
  This setting depicts the Path to Liberation, a journey from the confusion of Samsara to the clarity of Nirvana.

A Legacy of Devotion in Every Brushstroke

This piece is a work of living history, imbued with the devotion of its creator.

• Artistic Lineage: 
  It was brought to life by a master artist steeped in the historic Newari lineage.
• Renowned For: 
  This tradition is celebrated for its Fine Gold Line Work, a difficult technique that requires immense patience and a steady hand.
• Craftsmanship: 
  Each brushstroke is a meditative act, following sacred proportions to ensure its spiritual potency.

A Sacred Tool for Your Path

• For Meditation & Sacred Space: 
  Use this thangka as a focal point to cultivate Discipline. Its presence transforms any room into a sanctuary of peace and learning.
• The Heart-Mantra: 
  Chanting Om Muni Muni Maha Muniye Soha invokes the deity's sacred energy, helping you to awaken your own inner wisdom.
• A Final Blessing: 
  May this thangka be a constant guide, filling your home with light and your heart with peace.