A Small Thangka of The Red Buddha Amitabha in The Pureland of Sukhavati

Tibet, 19th century. 

Provenance: From a Hungarian private collector.

Condition: Minor losses and stains, overall good and original condition.

Dimensions: 27 x 22 cm

Painted in rich detail with gouache and gold on linen. Buddha is seated in dhyanasana and holds an alms bowl between his two palms. His meditating gesture represents the unity of wisdom and compassion.

Amitabha is shown as the largest figure in the center of the composition, seated on a lotus throne and in front of a radiating lotus aureole. Bodhisattvas are found at the top, right and left, and monastic figures are framing the image. Amitabha in the Sukhavati heaven is a common image in Himalayan art and an iconic symbol and subject representing Mahayana Buddhism.