A THANGKA DEPICTING TSONG KHAPA AS A MAHASIDDHA Tibeto-Chinese, 18th Century

Acquired by the current owner from the collection of Mr. Wayne Marcus, circa 1980s. 

Wear to pigments, surface abrasion and creasing overall. Seam to muslin canvas along proper right side of painting inherent to work. Some losses and degradation to white and green pigments. Painting laid on paper, Framed in a textile mount.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

In the current work, Tsong Khapa (1357–1419) is depicted in the form of an adept or mahasiddha, surrounded by a retinue of the eighty-four mahasiddhas, in accordance with the system enumerated by the Vajrasana in the 11th Century. Five forms of Tsong Khapa are depicting in the current work, including the central figure.

This unusual depiction is based upon a series of visions by one of Tsong Khapa's main disciples, Kedrub Geleg Pal Zangpo (1385-1438). Compare the composition with a later painting in the Tibet House collection, see Himalayan Art Resources, item no. 90748.