Context:

Delhi’s Majnu Ka Tila market reviving the glaze of Tangka art.

About Thangka Art

• Thangka painting, which thrived in Tibet for over a millennium, traces its origins back to the 7th century when the Newaris of Nepal introduced it.
• The Thangka painting is not just a work of art but a matter of cultural identity. 
• The traditional Thangkas are usually small in size and many of the original ones came in sets or as a series of narrative mythological scenes, but subsequently were separated.

The featrures of Art

• Thangkas are typically small, ranging in height from 20 to 50 cm.
• Thangkas are traditionally created on rich cotton or silk applique.
• This art depicts the life story of Buddha or other Buddhist deities, influential Lamas and serves both as holy objects and teaching tools.
• Tangkas are hand-painted and made of silk or cotton
• The paint consists of water-soluble animal glue, which are sourced from minerals and organic materials.
• In Nepal, 24-carat gold is applied to make the piece more sublime.

Based on method and material, tangkas fall into the following categories:

• Those appliquéd or embroidered with silk.
• Coloured painting (tson-tang) is the most prevalent and well-known type of Thangka painting.
• Black background (Nagtang) creates a dramatic and powerful effect.
• Red Background (mar-tang) symbolizes energy and good fortune.
• Embroidery (Tsem-thang) adds a luxurious texture and depth to the artwork.
• Gold Background creates a sense of grandeur and divinity.