c. 17th century
Bon Book Cover with Interior Painted Carvings of Shrines and Charms
Artist/maker unknownImage 1 of 31 / 3
This colorful object is half of a Bon book cover. The Bon religion predates Buddhism, but after the seventh century Buddhism heavily influenced this ancient Himalayan faith. A number of ritual items appear on the cover. The two magical knots (one formed by men, the other by horses) are used to protect people and animals from evil influences such as illness and accident. The geometric figure in center right, labeled cham-ris, suggests a demon-catching thread cross. The gate and three buildings signify actual structures that demarcate and protect village boundaries while the diagram (center left) outlines an idealized sacred space.
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