Artwork preview

Portrait of a monk, possibly Chen Nga Tshultrim Bar, extending a blessing

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The image depicts a portrait of a monk, possibly Chen Nga Tshultrim Bar, extending a blessing. The monk sits cross-legged on a patterned floor, wearing a red robe with an intricate gold shawl draped over his shoulders. His right hand is held up near his chest with the palm facing outwards and fingers curled inwards; his left hand rests on his lap. The monk's face is yellowish and nearly bald. The background features a dark blue and red archway behind the monk, adorned with gold embellishments. Two small alcoves are positioned on either side at the top of the archway; each contains a smaller figure of a person sitting cross-legged. On either side of the archway are two dark figures. The bottom of the image displays a series of vase-like objects. The overall color palette includes shades of red, gold, and dark blue. The image appears to be a painting on a flat surface, likely a canvas or board. The painting exhibits signs of aging, with some discoloration and wear visible around the edges.

Artwork Details

Date
late 11th–early 12th century
Medium
Distemper on cloth
Culture
Tibet
Dimensions
484 × 624 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette