An artwork on Galleree from Cleveland Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Green Tarac. 1260s
For Tibetans, Green Tara is one of the preeminent figures of their Buddhist faith, a radiant savioress who embodies the female form of the perfect, enlightened mind. The Green Tara in the Cleveland <em>thangka—</em>a Tibetan devotional painting on cloth—specifically dispels fear and provides protection, just like her mantra inscribed on the back side of the painting. Her green color and fear-not gesture link her to the cosmic Buddha of the North, enshrined above her head. Most scholars agree that this work was painted by the celebrated Nepalese artist known as Aniko.
The tiny monastic figure under Green Tara's right hand commissioned the painting.
thangka; gum tempera, ink, and gold on sized cotton
Painting: 52.4 x 43.2 cm (20 5/8 x 17 in.); Overall: 107 x 65 cm (42 1/8 x 25 9/16 in.)
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund by exchange
In the tranquil ambiance of Tibetan faith, there exists a figure of remarkable grace and strength: Green Tara. She stands as a beacon of hope, a radiant savioress who personifies the essence of enlightenment in feminine form. Her story unfolds across the soft expanse of cloth in a Cleveland thangka—a sacred tapestry of devotion.
Imagine a serene painting where the gentle strokes of the artist's brush dance across vibrant greens and warm hues, bringing forth a figure whose presence emanates comfort and reassurance. Green Tara reaches out through her fear-not gesture, extending her hand to those in need and wrapping them in a blanket of protection. This gesture speaks louder than words, instilling courage in the hearts of all who gaze upon her.
Behind the canvas, inscribed in delicate script, lies her mantra—a whisper of sacred wisdom meant to ward off fear and invoke safety. Each syllable resonates with the ancient teachings that breathe life into this devotional painting. Above her head, the cosmic Buddha of the North watches over, a celestial guardian ensuring that her protective embrace reaches even the darkest corners.
Most scholars trace the creative genius of this awe-inspiring work back to Aniko, a revered Nepalese artist famed for his skillful rendering of spiritual themes. His brushstrokes, like prayers woven into the fabric, capture not just the image of Green Tara but her very spirit—the essence of tranquility amidst life’s storms.
As we reflect on Green Tara’s story, we are reminded of the power of faith and compassion. She is more than just a figure in a painting; she is a living embodiment of resilience, casting light into spaces occupied by fear, and inviting us to join her in a journey towards peace.
About the artist
Creating transformative experiences through art “for the benefit of all the people forever.”The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for the quality and breadth of its collection, which includes more than 66,500 artworks and spans 6,000 years of achievement in the arts. The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from the museum's Open Access data under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.Address: 11150 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, USA 44106
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