Tibetan thangka, or scroll painting, of a mandala, which is a spiritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism representing the universe. Mandalas are very architectural in design and are based upon the form of a stupa. Mandalas are meant to be meditated upon to reach enlightenment, and are generally shown as a large circle with four gates or arches to be entered mentally. Often the circle would have layers with elements such as fire or lotus flowers to be travelled through in order the reach the center, which represents enlightenment. This particular mandala shows creatures called makara, or sea serpents, serving as the archways into the circle. Religious figures are shown on each side of the circle, leading eventually to the Buddha in the center. The outer parts of the circle show various deities and boddhisatvas in the heavens. The painting is surrounded by silk.

20th century

Size:(painting only) 19" height, 14.75" width (with silk) 33.5" height, 23.25" width