TYPE: Takyeb, i.e. horse, yak or pack animal forehead decoration

CIRCA: 1920’s

Tibetan takyebs are decorative ornaments woven specifically for horses and pack animals which are designed to fit securely on the animal’s forehead. Their ornate decoration often has an additional role as a talisman or ‘good luck charm’ which is believed to be imbued with magical properties that bestow a blessing that is intended to protect the animals from negative energies and malevolent spirits. The design of this particular takyeb fits into that talisman category as the central design features the sacred Kalachakra symbol* set against a dark blue background, arrayed around which are stylized lotus flowers which signify purity. Made sometime in the early 1900’s, it is tightly woven and has wool weft and appears to have wool warp, natural dyes, is backed by blue cotton cloth and measures 23cm x 26cm. Despite its age, the vibrancy of the colours and the lucidity of the symbolic motif remains prominent, a testament to the craftsmanship of the dyer. It is professionally mounted on off-white / bone coloured canvas on a wooden frame that measures 37cm x 37cm (but this could be removed if so desired). An exceptional piece in excellent condition that displays beautifully on a wall.

* The Kalachakra symbol is the probably the best-known symbol of the Kalachakra system, and possibly of the entire Tibetan tantric tradition. For a full description of its significance please see; https://symbolikon.com/downloads/kalachakra-wheel-of-time-buddhism/ & https://kalachakranet.org/kalachakra_tantra_10-fold_powerful.html