Item: Vajradhara Buddha - (solitary)

Vajradhara Buddha and a Drigung or Taglung Kagyu line of lineage teachers.

Vajradhara is at the center with two forms of Vajravarahi standing at the left and right sides, black and red. Samantabhadra Buddha is at the top center. An important but unidentified teacher is at the bottom center. He was likely alive when the painting was commissioned based on the evidence of a long-life vase held in the lap above his proper left hand.

In the top portion of the composition appearing as if in the sky are a grouping of deities, important early Indian teachers and mahasiddhas. Seated as if on the slopes of a green mountain are the teachers of the Kagyu lineage (either Drigung of Taglung). The lineage is read from left to right and alternates from one side of the canvas to the other: Tilopa, Naropa, Marpa, Milarepa, Gampopa, Pagmodrubpa, etc.

Jeff Watt 2-2014