Paubha Paintings
RATNASAMBHAVA
Mineral pigments on primed cotton
By Deepak Joshi
12 x 18 inches
Richly adorned with a multitiered crown, necklaces of pearl and gold and jeweled bracelets and anklets, Ratnasambhava lives up to his name, “Jewel Born”. Ratnasambhava sits on a multi-colored lotus throne with a score of Buddhas, bodhisattvas and deities surrounding the central figure. Like Amitabha, Ratnasambhava is one of the Five Transcendent Buddhas. His color is yellow and his paradise lies in the south. His left hand rests palm up in his lap, while his right hand makes the gift-giving gesture. He heads the jewel family, associated with wealth, but represents the transformation of pride into wisdom.
Deepak Joshi has modeled his canvas on an early-thirteenth century work in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum, originally one of five thangkas depicting the Tathagatas or Jinas of the Five Buddha Races.This is one of the earliest surviving Nepali paintings. Throughout ancient history, artists have replaced damaged paintings with contemporary motifs and likenesses. The roundness of the face suggests that it was repaired in a more modern Newar style. Comparing the modern works with their ancient counterparts and with each other gives an idea of the distinctly different interpretations modern Nepali artists bring to traditional compositions.