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Refuge Tree
    (painting no. 101)

Collection: Shelley & Donald Rubin
Origin: Tibet
Date: 1800-1899
Size: 30x22cm (12x9in)
Paint: Ground Mineral Pigment, Fine Gold Line
Ground Material: Cotton
Lineage: Geluk


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The cover illustration for "Essential Buddhism" by R. Thurman, 1996.

In this amazingly miniaturized version of a refuge tree Shakyamuni, the historic buddha is seen central with the primordial buddha Vajradara in his heart. Just below him sits Tsongkapa the progenitor of the Gelugpa lineage. Seated around Tsongkapa are his students and the later lineage holders of the Gelugpa school. Throughout the field we see many tutelary deities and protectors whose meditation transmissions were practiced in this lineage.

Moke Mokotoff 3-98


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Photographed Image Copyright © 1998 Shelley & Donald Rubin Foundation

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Copyright © 1998 Shelley and Donald Rubin Foundation, Shelley and Donald Rubin