Par-zo history

According to the Bhutanese historical texts, the art of woodblock carving was first introduced in Bhutan by Ter-toen(hidden treasure discoverer) Padma Lingpa (Wyl. padma gling pa,1450-1521) in the 15th century in Bumthang, Central Bhutan. He is not only an eminent Buddhist master, but also revered as the master artist of all the thirteen arts and crafts. The temple structure of temples like Tsamzhing Lhundrub Chholing monastery in Bumthang, sculptured figurines, wall paintings, masks, cloak of chain mails, swords, Vajra and woodblock engravings are some of the clues of his outstanding achievements which are still to be witnessed.