Mahasiddha Naropa

In this painting the great Tantric adept (mahasiddha) Naropa sits gazing up at a red dakini flying in a dynamic pose in the upper-right corner. The composition is characterized by a striking mixture of naturalistic and stylized elements. While the foliage and birds are quite naturally rendered, Naropa’s throne is brightly painted, unusually geometric, and highly stylized. This stands out starkly with the equally formalized ink monochrome tree trunk, with its writhing pink vines that look like intestines.

A table of Tantric ritual implements sits above Naropa wedged between the branches of a tree. A remarkable amount of detail is polished into the gold surface of the bell. Unusual attention is given to the diverse offerings set up to the right of the throne, including a plate of five different meats: human, elephant, horse, dog, and cow, which are considered taboo by mundane beings.