previous image || Metal and Stone Vestiges main article || next image

Metal and Stone Vestiges
Religion, Magic and Protection in the Art of Ancient Tibet

Image 1c

The copper alloy thokcha yak on the left with its low-slung belly simulates the long, hairy fringe of the wild yak that we saw in two of the three yak petroglyphs. This highly worn, thin-walled specimen probably dates to the pre-Buddhist period. Its warm patina indicates that it was used as personal ornamentation for many generations. The thokcha on the right contains a small hollow interior. Perhaps dating to early Buddhist times, this figurine has no loop for hanging. Such talismans were ordinarily worn by wrapping cords around them.

all text & images © John Vincent Bellezza

---

previous image || Metal and Stone Vestiges main article || next image