Eighth Karmapa, Mikyo Dorje (1507-1554) and his teacher the First Sangye Nyenpa

This work portrays as its main figures the Eighth Karmapa, Mikyo Dorje (1507-1554) (right) and his teacher the First Sangye Nyenpa (left). This painting is likely the last in a set of twelve paintings of Karma Kagyu gurus, as can be determined by the presence of a tiny figure between the two main lineage masters clearly labeled “Wangchuk Dorje,” the Ninth Karmapa and dates to 1570's or 1580's.