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Subject:Re: Tibetan Woodcut Print Block
Posted By: Nels Gullerud Fri, May 31, 2013
I am not familiar with the woodblock itself, but could help identify the image if you post clearer pictures of each figure. The lower right figure is Milarepa, a great saint and awakened buddha of Tibetan Buddhist lineage from around 1100 and the oposite lower figure is dressed in the robes of a lineage lama. I can make out the top left hand image as Chenrezig, the buddha of compassion. I believe the top buddha figure is Amitabha of pure land.
It is my guess from this that the block is probably of a specific teacher or lineage holder with the supporting lineages, teachers and buddhas surrounding him. The tree image is the lotus throne - the seed of awareness that arises from the emptiness of form seen in the water from which it arises. This maybe a chrysanthemum instead of a Lotus - not sure from the picture.
What gives you the impression that it is 16-17th century? The basic form of thankgas has continued for hundreds of years with very little change. The best way of dating the piece would be through examining the construction, age and natural patination of the wood more so than the image itself. My knowledge is very limited, but most Thankgas were hand painted, not printed. My guess would by that the print block would be used as a template and then a monk would paint the image over the base lines.
Hope this is useful
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