Backing from Thanka (Religious Picture) 18th century, Qing dynasty (1644–1911)

This is a backing from a religious picture, or Thanka, made by an unknown Manchu artist. In Tibetan Buddhism, Thankas are sacred objects, and their creation is often seen as a devotional act. The backing would have been covered with an image, traditionally painted or embroidered, of a deity, a religious scene, or a mandala. Consider that this backing, now exposed, once served as a foundational support, hidden from view. Its humble presence was essential, lending structure to the vibrant imagery meant for contemplation and worship. It invites reflection on the unseen labor and materials that underpin the most visible expressions of faith and culture. The cloth bears the marks of time, bearing witness to both devotion and the inevitable transformations wrought by history.