Ashtamangala

In India belief in auspicious objects has existed from ancient times and has been prevalent across Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism.

Mangala means that which is pure and sacred and that which possesses the power to ward off all evil. In this work the artist attempts to capture the essence of The set of Eight auspicious symbols of good fortune, the 'ashtamangala', which in Buddhism represent the offerings made by the God's to the Buddha (Shakyamuni) on his gaining Enlightenment. The hand in 'gyana' mudra in the centre represents the Buddha Himself.

There are several interpretations of each symbol. Some of which are:

1.The Conch represents that all pervasive deep peaceful sound of Buddhadharma, signifying the awakening of the believers from Ignorance. Interestingly in Hinduism the Conch is attributed to Vishnu who's avatar it is also believed is Shakyamuni Buddha.

2.The eternal knot represents the never ending deep Wisdom and Compassion of The Buddha  

3.The pair of golden fish symbolize Happiness represented by the complete spontaneity, fearlessness and freedom of movement of the fish in the water. Some connect the pair with the sacred rivers, the Ganga and the Yamuna

4.The Lotus Flower (Padma) represents purity of the body, speech, and mind. Just as the Lotus floats above the muddy waters of desire and material greed

5.The jewelled parasol or Sacred Umbrella, represents Refuge from harm and suffering under the protection of Dharma  

6.The Treasure Vase represents health, longevity, wealth, prosperity, wisdom, 

7. The Wheel. Believed to be The wheel of life, The Bhavachakra, and a symbolic representation of the cycle of existence as Buddhists believe in the continuous cycle of birth, life, death. Some also believe it to be the Dharmachakra, with the round shape of the wheel, representing the perfection of the dharma, the Buddha's teaching

8.The Victory Banner or Dhvaja, usually known as a military standard, represents The Buddha's victory over Mara, the Lord of Illusion, or the four hindrances in his path to Enlightenment.

Acrylic on canvas / 36" X 48" 
Status: Acquired