In this old Tibetan thangka painting, the central figure with two arms and five skulls on crown is Palden Lhamo, an enlightened female protector in Tibetan Buddhism, also known as Shri devi. She is widely regarded as the protector of Tibet. Her horrifying and angry looking appearance is a manifestation of power as a protector who will expel evils of any kind externally and internally. In Tibetan Buddhist's practice, she helps and guides one to a path of enlightenment by ridding of obstacles arising that prevent one from one's readiness to enlightenment.

The painting, possibly from the 18th century, though faded in color and is not in the prime condition, will need some professional cleaning work to bring out the original colors and image more clearly. Nevertheless, one can still see the elegant colors and beautiful composition of the painting behind all the smoke and dirt.

Dimensions: 17 1/4” x 12 1/5” (painting), 32” x 12 1/5” (with matted cloth).

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