How to Care for Thangkas
Hand-painted thangkas are crafted using natural mineral pigments, plant-based glues, and cotton-linen canvas. As unique, one-of-a-kind artworks rather than industrial prints, they require proper care to preserve their colors and condition over time. Please follow these guidelines:
Environmental Requirements
1. Display in a dry, well-ventilated, and light-protected indoor space.
2. Avoid direct sunlight or prolonged exposure to intense spotlights, as UV rays can cause the mineral pigments to fade and the canvas to age and become brittle.
3. Keep away from areas with high heat, high humidity, or heavy grease, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Moisture can lead to mold on the canvas and peeling of the pigments.
Cleaning Instructions
1. Gently remove accumulated dust using only a soft, dry brush or a microfiber dry cloth.
2. Never wipe the painting with water, wet cloths, alcohol, detergents, or chemical sprays. These will dissolve the pigments and cause irreversible damage.
3. Avoid touching the painted surface directly. Natural oils and sweat from your hands can stain the artwork and cause discoloration over time.
Storage & Protection
1. Never fold, squeeze, or stretch an unmounted thangka canvas, as folding will cause permanent cracks.
2. When not on display, store the thangka flat in a dry, dark place. Keep it dust-free, and air it out periodically to prevent insect damage and moisture buildup.
3. For framing, museum-grade dust-proof glass is recommended to block out dust and humidity. However, do not let the glass touch the painted surface directly.
Additional Notes
Over time, natural mineral pigments will develop a warm, natural patina. This is a normal part of the aging process for antique thangkas and is considered an aesthetic feature, not a flaw. We offer lifetime free maintenance consultations. If you notice any issues such as pigment cracking, please contact us to evaluate restoration options.
How to Care for Tsa-tsa
Handmade tsa-tsa are clay sculptures crafted by pressing natural clay, sacred soil, and mineral pigments. Due to their fragile nature, they are susceptible to damage. Please follow these care guidelines to preserve the integrity and colors of the artwork over time.
Environmental Requirements
1. Display in a dry, well-ventilated, and cool indoor environment.
2. Avoid direct sunlight and high-temperature heat sources. UV rays and extreme heat can accelerate the aging of the clay and cause the pigments to fade.
3. Keep away from high-humidity areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. Moisture can soften the clay, leading to cracking and powdering.
Cleaning Instructions
1. Gently remove surface dust using only a soft, dry brush or a microfiber dry cloth.
2. Never wash with water, wipe with a damp cloth, or expose the surface to alcohol, detergents, or any chemical agents. This will cause irreversible damage, fading, and the crumbling of the clay.
3. Minimize direct bare-hand contact with the painted surface, as natural skin oils can stain and contaminate the pigments.
Storage & Protection
1. Tsa-tsa are inherently fragile. Handle with extreme care to prevent dropping, squeezing, or collisions, which can easily cause breakage or chipped corners.
2. When not on display, store them flat in a dry, dust-proof box. Ensure occasional ventilation to prevent moisture buildup from being sealed inside.
3. Avoid storing painted tsa-tsa in airtight containers pressed directly against hard glass, as trapped humidity can easily damage the painted layer.
Additional Notes
Minor textures and tiny pores left from the handmade molding process are natural characteristics of the craft and are not considered flaws. We offer lifetime free maintenance consultations. If you experience any issues such as cracking or peeling paint, please contact us to evaluate restoration options.