Roundel with Karma Lineage

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The monks depicted here are dressed in the robes of the Karma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, and the central figure likely represents Mikyo Dorje (1500–1599), the eighth head of that lineage. The other seven monks represent earlier incarnations of him, including Marpa (1012–1098) and Milarepa (1040–1123). Vajradhara presides above, and Mahakala, the order’s great protector, stands below.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.

Metropolitan Museum of Art