Rahula, Protector of Zogchen Teachings

Gallery 327, Asian Art, third floor (Wood Gallery)

Main Building

Rahula, Protector of Zogchen Teachings

c. 19th century

Artist/maker unknown, Tibetan

This charming folklike painting portrays Rahula, the god of solar eclipses and protector of Zogchen teachings (Tibet's form of Zen or Chan Buddhism). Like other Tibetan planetary deities, Rahula can use his awesome powers to harm or benefit mankind. Mists of illness issue from his gaping mouths, yet he simultaneously aims his bow and arrow at those who break religious vows, and his snake-noose captures those who wander from the Buddhist path. The surrounding animal-headed goddesses and ferocious animals relate to ritual use of the painting to prevent calamities (epidemics, famines, and wars, for example) and cure diseases that are caused by Dud demons and Mamo demonesses (the couple in the center at the bottom).

Gallery 327, Asian Art, third floor (Wood Gallery)

Object Details

Title:

Rahula, Protector of Zogchen Teachings

Date:

c. 19th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Tibetan

Medium:

Colors on cloth; cloth mountings

Dimensions:

Image: 25 x 18 inches (63.5 x 45.7 cm) Mount: 36 1/2 x 22 inches (92.7 x 55.9 cm) Frame: 45 1/4 x 28 1/4 x 2 5/8 inches (114.9 x 71.8 x 6.7 cm)

Classification:

Paintings

Credit Line:

Gift of Natacha Rambova, 1961

Accession Number:

1961-177-2

Geography:

Made in Tibet, Asia

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.

Gallery 327, Asian Art, third floor (Wood Gallery)

Main Building

Museum map