Thangka Art on Display in Lhasa

Thangka is a Tibetan silk painting with embroidery, usually depicting a Buddhist deity, famous scene, or mandala of some sort. Thangka become popular among traveling monks because the scroll paintings were easily rolled and transported between monasteries. These Thangka served as important teaching tools depicting the life of the Buddha. Themes include landscapes, inhabitants, religious activities, nomadic life, as well as urban life.