Context:
Delhi’s Majnu Ka Tila market reviving the glaze of Tangka art.
About Thangka Art
- Thangka painting, which thrived in Tibet for over a millennium, traces its origins back to the 7th century when the Newaris of Nepal introduced it.
- The Thangka painting is not just a work of art but a matter of cultural identity.
- The traditional Thangkas are usually small in size and many of the original ones came in sets or as a series of narrative mythological scenes, but subsequently were separated.
The featrures of Art
- Thangkas are typically small, ranging in height from 20 to 50 cm.
- Thangkas are traditionally created on rich cotton or silk applique.
- This art depicts the life story of Buddha or other Buddhist deities, influential Lamas and serves both as holy objects and teaching tools.
- Tangkas are hand-painted and made of silk or cotton
- The paint consists of water-soluble animal glue, which are sourced from minerals and organic materials.
- In Nepal, 24-carat gold is applied to make the piece more sublime.
Based on method and material, tangkas fall into the following categories:
- Those appliquéd or embroidered with silk.
- Coloured painting (tson-tang) is the most prevalent and well-known type of Thangka painting.
- Black background (Nagtang) creates a dramatic and powerful effect.
- Red Background (mar-tang) symbolizes energy and good fortune.
- Embroidery (Tsem-thang) adds a luxurious texture and depth to the artwork.
- Gold Background creates a sense of grandeur and divinity.