The story of Nangsa, who comes back to life after death, begins with the wondrous birth of a girl to a childless couple. The Tibetan girl, Nangsa, wants to pursue a religious path but is forced to marry and has a child. Brutally mistreated by her husband for giving alms to Buddhist ascetics, she dies and faces the judgment of the Lord of Death who sends her back to continue her virtuous life.Alive again, Nangsa describes seeing the beings suffering in hell due to their actions in this and past lives as well as the salvation of others thanks to their compassionate acts and religious devotion. Her story affects the lives of people around her who change their ways of behavior to avoid unfortunate rebirths.

Artwork Details

Title
Life Story of Nangsa Wobum
Artist
Buchung Nubgya
Dimensions
Overall: 72 1/2 x 54 x 2 5/8 in.Image: 36 x 25 1/2 in.
Medium
Mineral pigments on cloth
Origin
New York City
Classification(s)
paintings scroll painting
Date
2020
Credit Line
Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art
Object number
SC2020.2.1

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Cyclicality

Concepts

The continuous cycle of life, death, and rebirth known as samsara. Buddhists believe that it is possible to exit this cycle if one achieves a state of awakening or nirvana by following a prescribed path. 

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Devotion

Concepts

A virtuous feeling and deep respect toward an authentic teaching, teacher, or path. Buddhists believe that expansive study, analysis, and meditation are essential steps for cultivating a healthy and enduring devotion.

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Liberation

Concepts

The central goal of Buddhism is the liberation of all beings from suffering and the cycle of life, death, and rebirth, known as samsara, through applying the teachings of the Buddha.

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Legendary and Historical Humans

Figure Type

Himalayan art includes portraits of legendary and historical humans, including accomplished religious teachers (lamas), the Buddha’s original disciples (arhats), and spiritually accomplished tantric masters (mahasiddhas).

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