Item: Teacher (Lama) - Jamyang Kyentse Wangpo

Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo (1820-1892) at the center accompanied by hand and foot prints. See two other similar compositions. (See Jamyang Khyentse Wanpo Main Page).

The Tibetan custom of having drawings done based on the physical outline of a teachers feet (and later - hands) appears to be an oral instruction coming down from Gampopa Sonam Rinchen. The most famous early text describing this practice was written by Pagmodrupa Dorje Gyalpo - a direct student of Gampopa. A number of early paintings are known that depict the feet of Drigung and Taglung teachers. (See Footprints & Handprints Main Page).

At the center is Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo with the right hand extended across the knee, palm up, holding the stem of a flower blossom supporting a sword and book - emblems of wisdom and Sutra learning. The left hand is in the lap cradling a vase while holding a stem of a flower blossom rising above the left shoulder supporting a vajra and bell - emblems Tantric learning. Attired in the garb of a fully ordained monk, he wears a pandita hat with three rings representing the accomplishment of having learned all of the three components of the Buddhist Tripitaka.

At the top center is Manjushri holding a sword upraised in the right hand. Below the central figure, within a blue oblong sphere is Sarasvati holding the stems of two utpala flowers crossed at the heart supporting a sword and book.

At the viewers middle left side, in a red sphere, the figure appears to be Choggyur Lingpa. On the right side, again in a red sphere, it appears to be Jamgon Kongtrul.

Jeff Watt 2-2011