1 Yak head with sun and moon above. This is a primitive symbol of the drogpas, nomadic herdsmen. Pre Buddhist period. [back]

2 Standing Lokeshvara. This is a very fine example. Buddhist deity Thogchags of this age and quality are very rare. 12th century. [back]

3 The bodhisattva Chanadorje. Although this deity is a popular Thogchag subject, this specimen is unusually early and crafted to the highest standard. Note the early style of dorje the deity holds in his right hand. No later than the 13th century. [back]

4 A sacred Bon "Kadampa chorten", or stupa crowned by sun and moon above. 12th century.
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5 This rare Chanadorje symbolizes the methods and activities that lead to enlightenment. The size and vibrancy of this specimen make it particularly desirable. early Buddhist period. [back]

6 A four-armed Chenrezig cast in the Pala style. Note the high crown and adroitly cast second pair of arms. This noteworthy example was probably made before the 13th century. [back]

7 An early Zipata mask with Pala influence. Note the jewels dripping from the mouth. 13th century.
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8 A trinity of Buddhist chortens, representing the Rig Som Gonpo. The three most important bodhisattvas, Chenrezig, Chanadorje and Manjushri embody compassion, skillful means and wisdom respectively. These bodhisattvas are the complete model for enlightenment. 12th century. [back]

9 This unique Thogchag contains ngagpa tantric symbols and was found near Mount Kailash. It features two dorjes and the flaming jewels. The horizontal bar represents the stick of Milarepa, above the three peaks of Chenrezig, Kharig Rimpoche and Gombo. 13th century. [back]

10 A very rare Chenrezig, the bodhisattva of compassion. The well worn patina and the size make it unique. 12th century. [back]

11 A superb Khyung holding a dorje above the flaming jewels. 11th century. [back]

12 Norbusor flaming jewels, representing the triratna, or Buddhist jewels of refuge, Buddha, Sangha and Dharma. This kind of object often constituted the diadems of the crown of large bronzes. Sometimes, as here, the Buddhist jewels were also cast as Thogchags. 12th century. [back]

13 Three conjoined chortens with a Khyung hovering over them. This rare and dramatic specimen belongs to the Early Buddhist period. [back]

14 A double dorje enclosed in a frame and surmounted by flaming jewels. Discovered near Mount Kailash, this highly desirable Thogchag is rare. Early Buddhist period. [back]

15 Dorje with spiral energy whirls. These spirals portray fields of power generated by the dorje, the infinite nature of Buddhist wisdom. Early Buddhist century. [back]

16 Three conjoined chortens rendered in a naturalistic style. This uncommon specimen dates from the Early Buddhist period. [back]