Visit our exhibition, "Gateway to Himalayan Art," to explore how patrons sought the accumulation of merit and hoped for wealth, long life, and spiritual gains, all to be fulfilled through the ritual use of objects and commissioning works of art. This artwork is one of these commissioned works and depicts Ushnishavijaya at the center. The deity Ushnishavijaya, or “Victorious Crown Ornament,” is a goddess of long life. She also removes obstacles, promotes well-being, and ensures environmental stability. At the bottom center of this painting is a depiction of the deceased individual on whose behalf this painting was made. The small figure, wearing white, is shown seated on a lotus, indicating that the relatives who commissioned this painting wish that the merit generated by its creation will help the departed to be reborn in a pure realm of a buddha. The central figure of the painting was either the personal deity of the deceased or chosen for the painting on the advice of a religious master. Learn more about "Gateway to Himalayan Art" at the link in our bio. ________ Ushnishavijaya; Tibet; 18th century; ground mineral pigment on cotton; Gift of Shelley and Donald Rubin; C2006.66.507 (HAR 975) #WhatsOnView #Gateway #GatewaytoHimalayanArt #Ushnishavijaya #HimalayanArt #RubinMuseum #NYCMuseum #NYCExhibition