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Metal
and Stone Vestiges
Religion, Magic and Protection in the Art of Ancient Tibet
Image 3d
This image features four wild herbivore amulets that
were probably produced in pre-Buddhist times. From left to right they
can be identified as ram, antelope (?), ram, and ibex (?). The two rams
are identified by their short horns that curl around the head. The antelope
(?) has ax-like design on its body, not unlike that found in certain
rock art depictions. The animal on the far left, with its long horn
sweeping over the back, most resembles an ibex. On the base of this
figure is an engraved swastika. While ibex compositions do not appear
in Tibet, this animal is strongly represented in the rock art of adjoining
areas of Ladakh, Spiti and Baltistan. |
all text & images © John Vincent Bellezza
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