Tibetan Hand Painted Tsakli Ritual Card

Whites and golds on green, softer than its red companions.

This is a hand painted tsakli ritual card from Tibet, made of paper and pigment in the early 19th century. Such cards are commonly used in sets during Tibetan Buddhist initiations, and often portray deities or teachers. A seated figure in pale garments with touches of red sits against a green and gold ground, with a soft, mottled texture from age. The border is a narrow band of muted orange. A wide white mat and black frame surround the card.

About 18 by 15 inches overall. Gentle color, for a calm wall.