A collection of rare and precious Tibetan silk paintings are on display in the UK. Called "Color, Pattern and Shine," the exhibit is part of the annual "Asian Art in London" spectacular.

These Tibetan paintings, known as thangkas, date back as far as the 14th century. The 15 examples illustrate the way Tibetan painters employed silk, taking advantage of all its potential for luxurious and decorative effects.

Tibetan paintings are often done on cotton and linen with mineral and organic pigments. Silk thangkas are more rare and valuable. No wonder the commercial exhibition has already generated considerable interest from dealers around the world.

Running until the end of the month, the exhibition coincides with the seventh "Asian Art in London" festival, with dealers, auctioneers and museums uniting to present an exciting program of events for lovers and collectors of Asian art.

(CCTV.com November 19, 2004)