Learning Center
Thangka Basics
Start with the essentials—learn what Thangka is, how it originated, and why it remains one of the most revered forms of Himalayan sacred art.
What is Thangka?
A beginner-friendly introduction to Himalayan Thangka art—its purpose, visual structure, lineage, and spiritual use.
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History & Origin
Explore the evolution of Thangka painting across Tibet, Nepal, and the greater Himalayan region over more than a thousand years.
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Cultural Significance
Understand the symbolic, spiritual, and cultural importance of Thangka in Buddhist practice and Himalayan heritage.
Read MoreOrigin Comparison
Explore how Thangka painting traditions differ across Nepal, Tibet, and Rebgong (Amdo). Understand stylistic variations, cultural roots, and craftsmanship standards that shape each unique artistic lineage.
Nepal vs Tibet vs Rebgong
Compare stylistic features, pigment traditions, iconographic approaches, and artistic philosophies from the three major Himalayan Thangka regions.
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Craftsmanship Differences
Learn how linework, canvas treatment, mineral pigment quality, gold application, and artistic training vary among different Himalayan workshops and traditions.
Read MoreTechniques & Craft
Discover the traditional Himalayan techniques that bring each Thangka to life— from natural mineral pigments to hand-prepared canvas and sacred 24K gold detailing.
Mineral Pigments
Explore why traditional artists use natural pigments such as lapis lazuli, malachite, cinnabar, and gold powder—creating colors that last for centuries.
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Canvas Preparation
Learn how artists stretch, size, burnish, and prepare cotton canvas by hand— forming the foundational surface for fine Thangka linework.
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Gold Gilding Techniques
Discover the sacred art of applying 24K gold—fine line gilding, raised gold relief, and halo illumination used in high-level master paintings.
Read MoreDeity Encyclopedia
Explore the sacred figures of Himalayan Buddhism—each with unique symbolism, blessings, iconography, and spiritual purpose. A comprehensive guide for practitioners, collectors, and students of Thangka art.
Shakyamuni Buddha
The historical Buddha who attained enlightenment and taught the path of liberation. Central figure in Buddhist art.
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Medicine Buddha
The Buddha of Healing, associated with physical health, emotional balance, and spiritual purification.
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Amitabha
Buddha of Infinite Light, associated with compassion, longevity, and rebirth in the Pure Land.
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Green Tara
Embodiment of compassionate action and swift protection. One of the most beloved female Buddhas.
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White Tara
Known for healing, longevity, and serene compassion—often invoked for health and spiritual protection.
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Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezig)
The Bodhisattva of Compassion, protector of all beings, often depicted with 4 or 1000 arms.
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Manjushri
Bodhisattva of Wisdom, associated with clarity, learning, and cutting through ignorance.
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Mahakala
Fierce protectors who remove obstacles, dispel negativity, and safeguard spiritual practitioners.
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21 Taras
The 21 Taras, they represent twenty-one emanations of Tara, the enlightened goddess of compassion, protection, and swift assistance.
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Five Dhyani Buddhas
The Five Dhyani Buddhas offer a complete system of wisdom, meditation, and symbolic meaning in Vajrayana Buddhism.
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Yamantaka (Vajrabhairava)
The wrathful manifestation of Manjushri in Tibetan Buddhism, symbolizing wisdom that conquers death and fear.
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Vajrasattva vs Five Dhyani Buddhas
The Purification and Enlightenment in Vajrayana Buddhism.
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Mandala Guide
Learn the meaning, symbolism, and spiritual purpose of Buddhist mandalas—sacred diagrams used for meditation, visualization, and inner transformation across Himalayan traditions.
What is a Mandala?
Discover the structure, meaning, and cosmology behind mandalas—geometric representations of enlightened realms used in Buddhist meditation.
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Kalachakra Mandala
Explore one of the most complex and revered mandalas in Buddhism, symbolizing the union of cosmic cycles, time, and profound inner transformation.
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Mandala in Meditation Practice
Learn how practitioners use mandalas for visualization, emotional clarity, healing, and deep meditative focus.
Read MoreStyle Guide
Discover the major artistic traditions of Himalayan Thangka painting—each with distinct aesthetics, linework, composition, and cultural heritage. Understanding these styles helps collectors choose artwork that resonates with their vision.
Menri / Miansa Style
The classical Tibetan style characterized by balanced composition, strong outlines, structured iconography, and deep symbolic meaning. The most widely preserved monastic painting tradition.
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Karma Gadri Style
Known for its open landscapes, soft palette, and spacious composition. Influenced by Chinese painting, it emphasizes elegance, natural scenery, and subtle atmospheric tones.
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Newar Style
Nepali Newar masters are renowned for their refined gold work, detailed ornamentation, and luminous deity expressions—highly prized by collectors worldwide.
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Rebgong Style
Originating from Amdo, Rebgong paintings feature precise linework, bright colors, expressive figure proportions, and an elegant clarity unique to this celebrated Tibetan art center.
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Thangka Care & Preservation
Learn how to properly care for your Thangka—ensuring its beauty, color, and sacred presence are preserved for generations. From cleaning and framing to long-term storage and museum-level preservation.
How to Care for a Thangka
Learn the essential guidelines for humidity, sunlight exposure, dust protection, and proper handling to maintain your Thangka’s integrity.
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Framing & Display Tips
Discover the best ways to frame, mount, and display your Thangka—whether for home altars, meditation rooms, or gallery-style installation.
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Long-term Preservation
Museum-level preservation practices including archival storage, temperature control, pest prevention, and long-term conservation care.
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