I. Historical Development
Origin (7th Century AD, Tibetan Tubo Dynasty)
The history of thangka can be traced back to the Tibetan Tubo Dynasty. It is said that early thangka creation emerged during the reign of Songtsen Gampo, serving as a tool for religious dissemination and cultural recording. At this stage, thangka took initial shape and was deeply influenced by Indian and Nepalese Buddhist art.
Development and Maturity (Post-Propagation Period to Yuan, Ming, and Qing Dynasties)
- Post-propagation period (after the 10th century): With the revival of Tibetan Buddhism, thangka became a core carrier for promoting Buddhist doctrines. Its themes and techniques gradually enriched, and initial artistic norms were established.
- Yuan Dynasty: Tibetan Buddhism gained favor from the central government, and thangka creation received official support. Its style integrated elements of Han painting, and techniques became increasingly sophisticated.
- Ming Dynasty: Thangka schools began to diversify. Schools such as Menri (emphasizing harmony between lines and colors) and Karma Gadri (specializing in depicting secular scenes and light effects) emerged one after another, forming a more diverse artistic style.
- Qing Dynasty: Thangka creation reached its peak. Court and folk thangka production flourished, covering themes such as religion, history, and folk customs. Craftsmanship (e.g., the use of gold foil and mineral pigments) became highly refined.
Modern Heritage and Protection
In 2006, thangka was included in China’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Its artistic value and cultural significance were further recognized, and the inheritance and innovation of traditional schools became key development directions.
II. Cultural Background
Core Carrier of Tibetan Buddhism
Thangka is an important tool for spreading Tibetan Buddhist doctrines and conducting religious rituals. By depicting images of deities, Buddhas, and religious scenes, it helps believers understand Buddhism and participate in worship and practice. For example, thangka is regarded as a "mobile altar" and is venerated during scripture recitation and prayer.
Comprehensive Reflection of Tibetan Culture
- Artistic techniques: Natural mineral pigments (e.g., azurite, malachite) and gold foil are used, resulting in bright and long-lasting colors. Lines are delicate and smooth, embodying both religious solemnity and artistic beauty.
- Thematic connotations: In addition to depicting religious deities and Buddhas, thangka also covers Tibetan history (e.g., stories of Songtsen Gampo and Princess Wencheng) and folk life (e.g., festival and labor scenes), earning it the reputation of an "encyclopedia" of Tibetan social culture.
- Folk uses: In Tibetan weddings, funerals, festivals, and sacrificial activities, thangka plays an important role in praying for blessings, dispelling evil spirits, and inheriting culture, making it an indispensable part of folk life.
Product of Multicultural Integration
Thangka creation integrates artistic styles from India, Nepal, and Han Chinese regions while preserving Tibet’s local aesthetics and techniques. It is a powerful testament to the exchange and integration between Tibetan culture and surrounding cultures and arts.
In summary, the historical development of thangka is closely linked to the rise and fall of Tibetan Buddhism and the changes in Tibetan society. Its cultural background is rooted in the belief system of Tibetan Buddhism and Tibet’s diverse cultural traditions, making it a precious cultural heritage that integrates religion, art, and folk customs.