Deity: Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva (大势至菩萨) – With Avalokiteshvara and Amitabha, one of the Western Triple Gem (西方三圣). Represents joyful giving (喜舍) and the symbol of light and reason (光明理性的象征); invoked to increase energy, self-fulfilment (增长能量,自我成就), and to gather and preserve wealth (聚财守财). Sacred patron (Ben Ming Fo) for the Zodiac Horse (生肖马的守护神).
Art School: Rekong Red-Gold Buddha Head (热贡红金佛首) – Hand-painted by Rekong masters; bold cinnabar background, layered gold-leaf halo; authentic lineage transmission.
Origin: Rekong / Tibet (Authentic lineage transmission).
Dimensions: Painting Core 3 x 3 cm.
Pigments: 100% Authentic Natural Mineral Pigments and gold leaf (Colour stability for 100+ years).
Casing: Jewellery Copper Casing (Durable; rope/beads not included).
I. Cultural Context: The Bodhisattva of Great Strength Mahasthamaprapta (大势至菩萨) forms the Western Triple Gem with Avalokiteshvara and Amitabha (西方三圣). He represents joyful giving (喜舍) and is the symbol of light and reason (光明理性的象征). In tradition he is invoked to "increase energy and self-fulfilment" (增长能量,自我成就) and to "gather and preserve wealth" (聚财守财). He is the sacred patron for those born in the Year of the Horse (生肖马的守护神). This 3x3cm Rekong Red-Gold Mahasthamaprapta Buddha Head pendant is a portable support for joyful giving, light and wealth.
II. Visual Analysis: The Grace of Rekong Red-Gold This Rekong Red-Gold Buddha Head masterpiece features the distinct character of the school:
Main Image: The pendant shows the Mahasthamaprapta Buddha Head—the compassionate face of the Bodhisattva, with the bold cinnabar red background and layered gold-leaf halo that define the Rekong Red-Gold style. The 3x3cm painting core keeps the iconography clear and spiritually potent.
Detail: Close-up, the painting reveals the layering of mineral pigments and gold leaf, and the precise brushwork that defines the Buddha head and halo, showcasing the masterful artistry of Rekong lineage painters.
Casing: The jewellery copper casing wraps the painting with a durable, elegant finish, keeping the sacred image secure for daily wear.
Wearing: Worn as a pendant, the Mahasthamaprapta Buddha Head Thangka sits close to the body as a portable shrine for joyful giving and wealth—a support for "increasing energy and self-fulfilment" (增长能量,自我成就) and "gathering and preserving wealth" (聚财守财), and for Horse natives, the blessing of their sacred patron.
III. Artistic Alchemy: Rekong Mineral Pigments and Gold Leaf Painted by Rekong masters, this pendant uses Natural Mineral Pigments and gold leaf on a bold cinnabar background. The piece is "inheritable and collectible" (可传承, 可收藏). The jewellery copper casing offers lasting protection and a classic aesthetic suited to daily practice.
IV. Spiritual Merit & Modern Efficacy: Joyful Giving and Wealth The Mahasthamaprapta Buddha Head Thangka offers comprehensive support: joyful giving; light and reason; increase in energy and self-fulfilment; and gathering and preserving wealth. For Horse natives, he is the sacred patron. He is a powerful support for practitioners and collectors who seek the presence of the Bodhisattva of Great Strength in compact form.
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