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). (See HAR #15476).

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