Rare Opportunity to Obtain an Original Calligraphy by His Holiness the XVII Gyalwang Karmapa, Orgyen Drodul Trinley Dorje

An act of extraordinary generosity by one of Tibetan Buddhism's most beloved figures has created an extraordinary opportunity for seekers of merit and lovers of art.

Vancouver, BC (PRWEB) September 14, 2006 -- In early 2006, His Holiness the XVII Gyalwang Karmapa produced three exquisite calligraphies in three languages. The works were expressly designed as a gift for Nalandabodhi Canada, a gift that conveyed His Holiness's vigorous support for the sangha's campaign to purchase a new dharma centre in Vancouver, British Columbia. (To view press release & images online go to: http://vancouver.nalandabodhi.ca/auction.html)

The three calligraphies - one each in Tibetan, Chinese and English - are being offered for public sale in a live/telephone auction over two days in September 2006 (the 26th and 30th). The framed calligraphies are available as individual pieces.

"It is extremely rare for an original drawing from the Karmapa's own hand to be made available to the public," says Lama Rabten Tshering, Director of Nalandabodhi in Vancouver. "Our sangha was elated by His Holiness' kindness. We have every hope that his generosity will be infectious!"

Nalandabodhi was founded by The Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche, a lineage holder in the Kagyu and Nyingma traditions. His Holiness the Karmapa is a precious source of guidance and blessing to The Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche's students and activities. Fundraising efforts to buy the Vancouver-based centre have been underway for two years.

The auction in late September is expected to attract bidders from around the globe. Established dharma centres in Europe, the Americas and Asia will be drawn to this singular opportunity, as will be individual practitioners, institutions and private art collectors. The auction will also include a beautiful calligraphy by The Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche.

"We know that any calligraphy by His Holiness will garner keen attention," says Kim McMeans, Chair of Nalandabodhi Canada. "But we believe these particular works are exceptional. The Karmapa created them with one intention, in three different languages. The energy is powerful.

And the blessings associated with His Holiness's works are inestimable."

The Karmapa, Orgyen Drodul Trinley Dorje, is the head of the Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. His Holiness is an accomplished musician, painter and calligrapher. Like the Dalai Lama, he is regarded as a living manifestation of compassion.

Description of Calligraphies by HH the XVII Gyalwang Karmapa

Available by live/telephone auction September 26 and September 30, 2006

"Karmapa Khyenno (Chenno)"

Language: Tibetan

Size: 24.5 x 34 cm (9-5/8 x 13.5 inches)

Medium: Brush & ink on rice paper

Signed and sealed by HH Karmapa

"Dharma"

Language: Chinese

Size: 24.5 x 34 cm (9-5/8 x 13.5 inches)

Medium: Brush & ink on rice paper

Signed and sealed by HH Karmapa

"Emptiness"

Language: English

Size: 44.5 x 91.5cm (17.5 x 36 inches)

Medium: Brush & ink on rice paper

Signed and sealed by HH Karmapa

Calligraphy by The Seventh Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche

"Dharmadhatu"

Language: Tibetan

Size: 38 x 136 cm (15 x 53.5 inches)

Medium: Brush & ink on rice paper

Signed and sealed by The Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche

How to Participate

To participate in the auction you must first register by e-mail, fax, or online. Please go to http://lotusbooks.nalandabodhi.ca/auction/ and follow the steps to register.

For more information about the auction contact:

Mary Li, Registrar

Phone 604.733-7556

Fax: 604-736-3827

Contact:

Alannah Wells, Fundraising Director, Nalandabodhi Canada

For media interviews: 604.327.0498

Nalandabodhi Vancouver Website: http://vancouver.nalandabodhi.ca

Nalandabodhi: A network of Buddhist meditation and study centres

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