Dharmapala Thangka CentreSchool of Thangka Painting

Heruka [Sanskrit] is the name of a category of wrathful deities in Vajrayana Buddhism. They are regarded as enlightened beings who assume a fierce countenance in order to help sentient beings. In East Asia they are called Wisdom Kings.

Herukas represent the embodiment of indivisible bliss and emptiness. They appear as meditation deities, usually placed in a mandala. They are often depicted in the yab-yum position.

The Heruka paintings 1 - 9 and 11 are wall paintings created by the Dharmapala Thangka Center for a monastery - they are not thangkas! However, the images can easily be produced as thangka versions upon request.