Our Thangka styles

The earliest surviving thangka paintings from Nepal date to about the 14th century AD, although the tradition of painting deities dates much earlier than that. Historically, Tibetan and Chinese influence in Nepalese paintings is quite evident in thangkas, and Nepalese styles in turn have been a significant influence on Tibetan art and Chinese art. Our family lineage of thangka painting specializes in two traditional styles:

Nagtang style (left picture)

In Buddhism, black symbolized primordial darkness from which the wonder of creation emerges. The black thangkas are a special genre of highly mystical, potent paintings. They depict deities as shimmering, brilliant forms appearing out of translucent darkness.

While there are slightly differing techniques, it is the use of [real] gold that gives these images their lightness and clarity.

Karma Gardi style (right picture)

The Karma Kagyu style of painting, known as Karma Gardi, was established in 1500 and reflects especially Chinese influences. Its known for its soft colors and plain landscapes that give the deities a gentle and light appearance.