“Master Yuthok” Tokyo, 2023 commission work
Size: A4
Vellum
24kt gold
Gouache painting
This artwork depicts Yuthok Yontan Gonpo, a prominent Tibetan Buddhist master from around the 8th century, often referred to as the ‘first master.’ The client, a Tibetan Buddhist lama, requested a portrait of the Master in the style of Western miniatures. I adopted the traditional Western composition of ‘Christ in Majesty.’
Within the vegetal motif border, following the traditional 9th-century Western style, but you’ll find some symbols of Buddhism such as Eternal Knots and Dharma wheels. Additionally, you may also discover Celtic dragons. Master Yuthok is holding a flower in his right hand and a medicine pot in his left, while in the aureola behind him, Buddhist prayers are written in golden Roman capital letters.
This artwork will be displayed on a Buddhist altar. The client expressed a desire for it to symbolize ‘Universality of spirituality, the perenniality and unity of different traditions reaching towards the same divine goals.’ I hope this piece will serve as a testament to that vision.
