Antique, Tibetan, Thangka Painting, 17th century, Buddhist

Description

Rare 17th-Century Tibetan–Nepalese Thangka Depicting Acala (Chandamaharoshana Tantra)

An exceptionally rare and important 17th-century Tibetan–Nepalese Thangka, depicting Acala (Chandamaharoshana), the wrathful manifestation of Manjushri, Bodhisattva of Supreme Wisdom. This powerful devotional painting represents one of the most esoteric and visually arresting subjects within Vajrayana Buddhist art.

At the centre of the composition, Acala is shown in a dynamic, commanding posture, wielding his sword of wisdom and holding a vajra-tipped noose, while making a gesture of admonition. He is depicted in yab-yum union with his consort Vishvavajri, symbolising the inseparable union of wisdom and compassion and the blissful realisation of enlightenment.

The painting is a visualisation of the Chandamaharoshana Tantra, a highly advanced meditational text associated with ritual practice, protection, healing, and the transformation of ignorance into awakened awareness. Surrounding deities and attendants are arranged in a complex and harmonious mandala-like composition, reflecting profound iconographic precision.

Executed in mineral pigments on cloth, the thangka displays rich colour, strong line work, and sophisticated compositional balance typical of high-quality Nepalese Buddhist painting of the late 16th to 17th century. The condition is remarkably good for its age, with visible signs of devotional use and natural patina consistent with authenticity.

Comparable examples of this subject are held in major international museum collections, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, underscoring the rarity and significance of this work.

A museum-quality thangka of outstanding spiritual, historical, and artistic importance, suitable for serious collectors of Himalayan, Tibetan, and Buddhist art.

Size 106 x 65 cm

Inner 63 x 50 cm

Most objects sold in our gallery are antiques, vintage or used, therefore, they will show signs of being antique, vintage or used. There may be signs of scratches, discolouration, chips, cracks, wear and tear, unknown manufacturers and/or patterns. Please see the photographs as they form part of the description.  Overseas buyers in some countries may have to pay any import duties, taxes, or fees that may apply. All items are meticulously wrapped and prepared for both international and UK shipping.