Hand-Painted Chenrezig Thangka: Tibetan Compassion Buddha Canvas Art

**CHENREZIG – THE BODHISATTVA OF COMPASSION: OIL-VARNISHED TIBETAN THANGKA PAINTING**

Avalokiteshvara, also known as Chenrezig, embodies the enlightened compassion of all Buddhas. He is the earthly incarnation of the celestial Buddha Amitabha and protects our world during the time between the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni, and the future Buddha, Maitreya. Chenrezig is universally beloved across all branches of Buddhism and is considered the patron Bodhisattva of Tibet. Even in non-Buddhist countries, many people recognize his mantra, "Om Mani Padme Hum."

Chenrezig has courageously vowed that as long as even one being remains trapped in samsara, he will continue to work for the benefit of all living creatures. His wisdom, compassion, and endurance are boundless, and he is especially revered for helping those who meditate upon him to achieve realizations and spiritual attainments.

GESTURES AND ATTRIBUTES

Chenrezig is depicted here in his four-armed form, which symbolizes his whirlwind of constant activity in the world. Two of his hands are pressed together at his heart, holding the wish-fulfilling jewel of enlightenment, the Chintamani. This jewel manifests whatever a faithful seeker may pray for and is also a metaphor for the profound teachings and virtues of the Buddha. Chenrezig's clasped hand position further expresses his gratitude and respect for Buddha Amitabha.

In his upper right hand, he holds a crystal mala, or Buddhist rosary, that he unceasingly counts and which represents his continuous compassionate activity in the world. And in his upper left hand, he holds a beautiful lotus flower in full bloom. Just as the lotus arises, dazzling and pure, from dark, muddy waters, Chenrezig constantly manifests amidst the misery and suffering of our world, yet remains unstained or tainted by samsaric conditions. His blossoming lotus is meant to inspire us to do the same, by unfolding the pure compassion of our true natures even amidst the challenges of worldly existence.
SYMBOLISM

On Chenrezig's left side, at the level of his heart, is the gentle face of a wild deer; the deer's skin is draped over his shoulder. The deerskin is an ancient symbol of renunciation, as wandering mendicants often took the skin of a deer as a meditation seat, and sometimes as a garment and blanket. This symbolic meaning applies, as Chenrezig, a Bodhisattva, has renounced the snares of worldly existence; however, it also further symbolizes his boundless compassion for sentient beings. According to legend, Chenrezig once took rebirth as a wild deer, but he had such heartfelt sympathy for the hunter who chased him that he willingly laid down his life.

SIZE: 14.5 X 19.5 (37 x 49.5 cm)- Excluding Outer Border
Surface Material: Handmade Cotton Canvas
Colors Used: Tibetan Canvas Cotton, Gold, Water, and Natural Color, With Tibetan Hide Glue Mixture

Before making a purchase, please take note of the following important information:
- Each painting is hand-painted, making every piece unique.
- Differences in lighting and screen resolution may result in slight color variations.
- Paintings are even more captivating when viewed in person.
- The size specified for the painting does not include the outer border.
- All paintings will be securely packed in a PVC tube to ensure safe transit.
- Buyers are responsible for any additional fees at their destination, including import taxes and duties, which are not included in the purchase price.
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