Cultural Relics in the Collections of Monasteries
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Tibetan Buddhist Monasteries flourished for 500 years from the 10th to the 15th century. During this period, the Nyingma, Gadang, Sakya, Kagyu and Gelug Sects arose, and each constructed its own Monasteries.
An Investigation conducted in the late 1950s revealed that the Monasteries numbered some 2,600, including famous Monasteries such as Jokhang, Toding, Sagya, Curpu, Zhigungti, Garma, Gandain, Zhaibung, Sera, Palkor and Tashilhunpo.
The Jokhang, Samye and Sagya Monasteries were all built on flat land, and each has Sutra and Buddha halls. Other Monasteries were built on mountain slopes and tower over the surrounding countryside.
The latter include the Zhigungti, Curpu and Sera Monasteries.
The Statues of Buddha in the Monasteries, which constitute part of the religious Art of Buddhism, are lifelike and varied in style-some are dozens of meters tall, while others would fit into the palm of one's hand.
They are made of gold, silver, jade, ivory, sandalwood or pottery.
Frescoes and Tangka painting constitute another important aspect of Monastery Art.
They depict historical and Buddhist stories, and are painted with mineral colors mixed with animal glue and cow bile.
Painted Tangka scrolls first appeared in the 7th century and became very popular during the Chinese Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).
They were painted on cloth, silk or paper unique to Tibet.
Duisiu embroidery and butter sculptures also represent the flourishing Art of Tibetan Buddhism. Here are cultural Relics that may be difficult to see in other places.