Mongolian Thangka: A Journey Through Time

Experience the exquisite beauty of Mongolian Thangka paintings, showcasing the unique blend of Tibetan tradition and nomadic influence from the late 19th and early 20th.

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Thangka's Nomadic Evolution

The art of Thangka scroll painting developed rapidly in Mongolia since the 18th century, and by the beginning of the 20th century, The Buddhist iconic arts had found their distinct features derived from the traditions and ideology of the nomadic civilization. 

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A Diverse Artistic Landscape

This collection showcases the Ikh Khuree school, featuring renowned artists like Jugder, Khasgombo, and Gendendamba, alongside lesser-known talents. Explore the unique style and craftsmanship of this influential art movement.

Buddha Shakyamuni and the eight Bodhi stupas (18th-19th Century)The Bogd Khaan Palace Museum

Golden Stupas of the Buddha's Life

These stupas represent the 8 key moments in Buddha's life, marking his journey from birth to enlightenment. They showcase the importance of these milestones within and their symbolic power. Discover the intricate details of each stupa, adorned with precious gold.

Avalokiteshvara (18th-19th Century)The Bogd Khaan Palace Museum

Avalokiteshvara

The deity All-Seeing One  is the Buddha who took a vow to liberate all the sentient beings from suffering until the end of samsara.  This bodhisattva, in radiant white color, is depicted with one face and four arms.

Buddha Shakyamuni and the eight Bodhi stupas (18th-19th Century)The Bogd Khaan Palace Museum

The Heart of the Teachings

Buddha Shakyamuni is depicted in the center, seated on a lion throne, with his right hand gestured in Abhaya mudra and his left hand in Dhyana (meditation) mudra. Flanking him are his two foremost disciples, Moggallana and Sariputta.

Avalokiteshvara (18th-19th Century)The Bogd Khaan Palace Museum

Buddhist Iconography

He gestures his front pair of hands in Varada (generosity) and Dhyana mudra and holds a mirror in the right upraised hand and a vase of holy water that eliminates diseases in his left, and standing on a moon disc of a color-petaled lotus base.

Embellished with Golden Threads

The blue halo surrounding Avalokiteshvara is adorned with orange and golden threads, reflecting the opulence and artistic sophistication of Mongolian Thangka paintings. This intricate detail highlights the importance of this deity in Buddhist tradition.

A defining characteristic of Mongolian thangka paintings is the artists' ability to showcase their creativity while adhering to the established guidelines of Tibetan artistic tradition. Explore these remarkable works at our museum.

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