020
The Buddha Bhaishajayaguru ("Teacher of Healing") with Amitabha,
Shadakshari, Padmasambhava, and Two Protectors
Thangka, painting
Cotton support with opaque mineral pigments in waterbased (collagen) binder
14.0 x 18.5 inches Eastern Tibet (Kham region)
Ca. 17th century
Karma Gadri Bhaishajayaguru, or the Medicine Buddha, holds the medicinal
myrobalan plant in his right hand, which refers to his ability to heal physical
ailments. In his left hand he holds a bowl containing amrita, the nectar
of enlightenment. Together, the medicinal plant and the nectar symbolize
the link between physical and mental health. The two figures below, Simhanada
Avalokiteshvara on the Buddha's right, and the Dam Chan, Garba Nagpo on
his left, cure disease and protect against black magic respectively.
Chad Sawyer
Museum #: 93.013
Huntington Archive Image Scan #: T1022