Amitabha Buddha, an essential figure in Tibetan art, is the Buddha of Infinite Light and the principal deity of the Pure Land branch of Buddhism. In the tradition of Tibetan painting, Amitabha Buddha Thangka exemplifies the rich symbolism and exquisite detail characteristic of this art form.
Amitabha was once a king who renounced his throne to become a monk. According to Mahayana scriptures, Amitabha possesses infinite merits resulting from good deeds over past lives as a bodhisattva named Dharmakara. Buddha Amitabha now reigns over 'Sukhavati', the Western Paradise, also known as the 'Pure Land'.
The meaning of Amitabha Buddha Thangka is rooted in the spiritual essence of the figure it portrays. Amitabha is a symbol of boundless compassion, wisdom, and the transformative power of light. He is often depicted seated on a lotus flower, radiating a warm, welcoming glow, representing his aspiration to help all sentient beings attain enlightenment. Amitabha has red skin and is dressed in monk's robes, sitting in a lotus position. His hands are folded in a meditation mudra, holding a bowl containing the nectar of immortality.
Amitabha Buddha is also associated with tantra practice in Vajrayana Buddhism, which incorporates esoteric rituals and visualisations to accelerate the path to enlightenment. As such, Thangka paintings of Amitabha Buddha hold particular significance for those engaged in these practices, illustrating the connection between tantra and the symbolism of Tibetan art.
'All of our paintings come from the original birthplace of Thangkas, which is Tibet, Nepal, North India and Bhutan. Depending on the size and quality of details it can take an artist up to three years to complete a single piece, using 24 Carat Gold, Sterling Silver and Himalayan precious & semi-precious minerals.'