Snow Lions from the Portrait of Jnanatapa

The image shows two stylized snow lions, a mythological creature in Tibetan art, flanking the base of a central figure. The lions have tan bodies, dark blue manes, and blue, flame-like tails; they stand with bared teeth and wide, focused eyes. They are set against a vibrant red background patterned with blue and red rectangular geometric motifs. Between them, the lower section of a dark-colored, circular-patterned garment hangs down, revealing a glimpse of striped fabric underneath.

The snow lion is a primary symbol of power, fearlessness, and the snowy range of Tibet, frequently appearing in Tibetan Buddhist iconography as a supporter of the thrones of enlightened beings and lamas. This specific style is characteristic of 14th-century Central Tibetan painting, likely produced under the influence of the Kagyu lineage or monastic traditions in the Kham region.