Je Tsongkhapa is a famed Buddhist master who is said to be an emanation of the deity Manjusri, the Bodhisattva of wisdom. In 1409 Je Tsongkhapa founded the Ganden Monastery, from which evolved the Gelug school, which emphasizes the importance of a strong monastic sangha.

This painting of Je Tsongkhapa depicts him wearing his monastic robes and Gelugpa crown. He holds the wisdom sword in his right hand and the teachings (texts) of liberation in his left, both supported by blooming lotuses. The original painting was painted almost entirely in 24 kt gold and the intricate gold details were achieved using a traditional burnishing brush.