CHINE, DYNASTIE QING, ÉPOQUE QIANLONG (1736-1795)

The individual facial portrait style is executed in a certain realistic western manner and can be compared favourably to the very small known group of painted representations of Rolpai Dorje (1717-1786), the ‘Teacher of the Empire’ under emperor Qianlong (1736 – 1796). Most examples however show the lama with an elderly face. Just one painting of the group and inscribed with his name, presently in the Ethnographic Museum of Berlin (published in ‘Chinese Imperial Patronage: Treasures from Temples and Palaces’, vol. II, by Asian Art Gallery, London, page 103, fig.5) illustrates a comparable younger Rolpai Dorje. See a larger thangka depicting Changkya Hutuktu Rolpai Dorje (1717-1786), sold at Sotheby's Paris, 18 December 2012, lot 30 (228,750 EUR).
Born in Amdo, Rolpai Dorje received his education in the court of the Yongzheng emperor, where he forged a strong bond with his peer and future ruler, the Qianlong emperor. Elevated to the position of state preceptor by the new emperor, he emerged as a pivotal figure in the Qianlong court, wielding significant influence in religious and diplomatic matters. Recognized as the reincarnation of Changkya Hutuktu, a revered lineage of Mongolian Buddhist masters, he oversaw intricate state Buddhist ceremonies, rejuvenated ancient Buddhist customs, and advocated for updated teaching methodologies and Buddhist artistic endeavors. He curated the illustrated collection of Three Hundred and Sixty Icons and played a crucial role in translating Buddhist texts into Mongolian. Guided by imperial patronage, Rolpai Dorje spearheaded the extensive production of nearly all Imperial Buddhist artworks during the eighteenth century, leaving an indelible mark as a visionary leader who greatly enriched the legacy of the Qianlong era.