Opening at Rossi & Rossi Hollywood Road on 18 December 2021, Precious Ones: Tibetan Tulkus examines the representation of tulkus in the Himalayan tradition of image-making. The exhibition is comprised of photographs of Tibetan tulkus from acclaimed British-Belgian photographer Martine Franck (1938–2012) as well as a selection of classical bronzes and paintings depicting Buddhist spiritual masters from a wide range of historical periods in Tibet.

A vernacular expression, tulku literally means ‘phantom body’ or ‘emanation body’. One who holds the title is commonly addressed as Rimpoche (‘Precious Jewel’) and counted in the Tibetan tradition as a lama or a guru (spiritual guide). As embodiments of boundless compassion and beneficence, tulkus willingly take on recurring births in order to spread out their good acts and, thus, benefit as many sentient beings as possible with each reincarnation.

Gallery address: 195 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan