Thangka has a history of over 1000 years. It is traditionally kept rolled up when not on display, mounted on a textile backing similar to Chinese scroll paintings, with a silk cover on the front. Thangkas must be stored in dry places to prevent moisture from damaging the silk, as they are quite delicate. While most thangkas are relatively small, there are also large ones. Small thangkas typically feature numerous tiny figures, primarily buddhas, making them important teaching tools for monastic students. On the other hand, large thangkas were created for religious festivals.