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Embroidery of Sakya Gyaltsen
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Embroidery of Sakya Gyaltsen
BHUTAN; 19th century; Silk; 66.6 x 51.3 cm;Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, USA
This embroidery portrays Sakya Gyaltsen, an important figure in the history of Bhutan. According to the inscription, Sakya Gyaltsen was twice elevated to the position of National Master of Bhutan, in which capacity he was both a spiritual leader and an official responsible for state affairs.
Sakya Gyaltsen is depicted wearing red inner and outer robes, and a red hat, which is one of the distinguishing symbols of the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. He sits on a teaching throne with his right hand forming the vitarka (teaching) mudra, and the left hand holding a scripture. He has a simple two-color nimbus, and he is surrounded by leafy plants. There is a white silk ceremonial scarf draped across the back of the throne. Above Sakya Gyaltsen is a small image of Vajrasattva holding a vajra and bell. There is a pleated valance at the top, and a lively dragon embroidered in gold thread at the bottom. |
