Nepal
Dated by inscription 1853
Nepal
Dated by inscription 1853
Dipamkara is known as the Buddha of the Previous Age, or the age prior to the time of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni, who lived during the sixth century BCE. Dipamkara is often remembered as the buddha who predicted Shakyamuni’s future enlightenment. Around the seventeenth century Dipamkara’s rituals were popularized by Nepalese Buddhists, who considered him the patron deity of merchants and alms giving. Dipamkara is widely worshiped in Nepal but is rarely found in other regions of the Himalayas. The inscription on this painting tells us it was commissioned in 1853 by Tuladhar Bhajuvantasingha, most likely to be displayed in honor of a special alms-giving festival. The celebration illustrated in the painting is taking place at the Swayambhunath Stupa of Kathmandu, which is depicted above the central figure.
A state of “waking up” from illusion and seeing the true nature of reality. Buddha Shakyamuni attained enlightenment while meditating under the bodhi tree. Buddhist teaching explains that the accumulation of merit and wisdom are essential for achieving enlightenment, also known as awakening.
In Buddhism merit is accumulated through engaging in positive actions that lead to positive results, such as better rebirths. Buddhists gain merit by making offerings, donating to those in need, reciting mantras, and other good deeds.
In Buddhism time is perceived as relative, dynamic, and conceptual. This outlook highlights important principles of interdependence within Buddhist philosophy.
An awakened being who understands the true nature of reality and is free from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. While there are many buddhas, Siddhartha Gautama is the historical Buddha, whose teachings became the foundation of Buddhism.
The Himalayan kingdoms of the Kathmandu Valley were significant centers of Buddhist culture. Nepalese kings, Buddhist institutions, and ordinary people patronized the vibrant art guilds. The artistic traditions of the regions are well-known in Tibetan areas and beyond, and Newar artists have always been in high demand throughout Tibetan regions and Inner Asia.
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