Sitatapatra
- Location
- Tibet
- Date
- dated 1864
- Material
- Pigments on cloth
- Catalog Number
- F1996.18.1 (HAR 468)
- Collection
- Rubin Museum of Art
- Provenance
- Gift of the Shelley & Donald Rubin Foundation
Sitatapatra, a female Buddhist deity associated with protection and the prevention of obstacles in everyday life, is equipped with ten million eyes that watch over those in need. She carries a white parasol symbolizing benevolent protection, and the various implements in her thousand hands each signify a specific benefit. She tramples personifications of overcome obstacles under her feet.
An inscription at the bottom of the painting records that it was commissioned in 1864 in Tibet by a loving husband—likely a Newar of the Kathmandu Valley—on behalf of and in honor of his late wife, Lakshmi. This commission was intended to increase merit for the deceased and remove obstacles to ensure a better rebirth in her next life.
More in
Merit
Central Tibet, early 20th century, Silver, wood
Tibet, 14th century, Copper alloy
More in
Living Practices
Ritual
Ritual
Ritual informs the structure of religious life in the Himalayas, defining the daily routine of practitioners and shaping a range of community-based activities.
Secular Aims
Secular Aims
Religious rituals and the commissioning of art can serve everyday secular needs, the most common being wealth, health, and long life.
Religious Goals
Religious Goals
Tantric practitioners strive to transform themselves by using meditative and ritual tools with the ultimate goal of enlightenment or awakening.
Storytelling
Storytelling
Many Himalayan paintings serve as illustrations and instructional tools that bring forth stories about the Buddha, Tibetan masters, and more.
Instruction
Instruction
Instructive paintings can illustrate religious doctrines, medical and astrological charts, or images of ritual implements and meditative postures.
Art in Context
Art in Context
Experience a sacred space similar to what could be found in a Tibetan household where religious objects are displayed and used in ritual and devotional practices.
