Map of Tibetan Monasteries

CHINA, Tibet; Qing dynasty

According to the King-Lineages of Tibet and the Scholar’s Feast, when Princess Wencheng and Princess Bhrkuti were searching for a place to build Jokhang Temple and Ramoche Monastery, they realized that Tibet was shaped like a female demon lying on her back, and that it would be necessary to construct temples at key points on the demon’s body. Their husband, Songtsan Gampo (reigned 629–650), went on to build temples in these important places. Jokhang Temple and Ramoche Monastery were built in Lhasa, where the heart of the demon was thought to be located.
This remarkable painting illustrates Tibet according to the story. Temples, sacred caves, stupas, and towns are shown among mountains and rivers on the demon’s body. The temples are located on the joints of the body, just as described in the historical records. The landscape is painted with bright colors, and each temple is accurately portrayed.