Buddha Paubha Amidst the Seven Jewels of Royalty

This exquisite thangka depicts Buddha Paubha, a less commonly seen form, on a fabric canvas, possibly cotton, prepared with a traditional gesso-like base to create a smooth surface for painting. The color palette is predominantly vibrant, featuring rich reds, blues, greens, and golden yellows, which combine to create an uplifting and spiritually charged atmosphere.

Buddha Paubha stands centrally on a lotus pedestal, his right hand extended in a gesture of giving or blessing, while his left hand holds an object, though its specific identity is not entirely clear in the image. He is adorned in flowing robes with intricate patterns, radiating a sense of serene compassion. Surrounding him are various figures and animals, including an elephant and a horse, celestial beings, and mythical creatures like a garuda-like bird and a snow lion. These elements contribute to a complex narrative, likely symbolizing aspects of Buddhist teachings or specific stories related to this Buddha form.

The background features lush, green trees and a stylized landscape, suggesting an earthly yet sacred setting. A subtle moon can be seen in the upper left, adding to the tranquil and ethereal ambiance. Symbolically, the lotus pedestal represents purity and enlightenment, while the surrounding animals and figures likely represent different realms of existence or aspects of the Buddha's enlightened activity. The overall artistic style is highly detailed and devotional, characteristic of traditional thangka painting, with meticulous attention to form, color, and iconographic precision. This thangka serves as a profound visual aid for meditation and a testament to the rich cultural and religious traditions of Buddhist art.