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Item: 30101

Tibetan door covers are decorative and functional and this has earned them a place as an ever-present accessory in nearly all Tibetan homes and monasteries. Even nomads tending sheep or yaks in the most remote pastures will very likely have a cloth curtain something like this one over the door to their yurt or tent.
The door covers serve to keep dust and insects out and in cold weather even the light weight covers make a difference in temperature by keeping cold drafts out and sealing heat in to some degree. They are usually embellished with some decorative motif. Sometimes they are simple geometric patterns, while other times more elaborate designs - nearly always pertaining to Tibetan Buddhism are employed.

This door cover has a beautiful and power packed combination of Tibetan Buddhist symbols embroidered on to the natural colored cotton field. In the center, as this piece's most prominent design, we see the emblem of the Kalachakra cycle of tantras. Above this central figure we find the mantra "Om Mani Padme Hung" embroidered in the Tibetan script and just above that, there is a colorful double dorje. Next, taking a look at the designs used below the Kalachakra emblem, we'll find the "8 auspicious symbols" in full color embroidery and two more double dorjes, rounding out this very good looking door cover. The top has an ornamental ruffle to add the final touch to what we think you'll agree is a very fine example of this useful traditional item.

The Symbolism in Brief
This Kalachakra emblem features the flame, sun and moon plus a composite of the seven syllables, which are the seed mantra for the Kalachakra cycle of teachings. As many of you know, the Kalachakra is a tantric practice that is interwoven with Tibetan Buddhist cosmology and astrology, and has to do with the Buddhist Pure Land, Shambala. First given by the Buddha himself, the Kalachakra teachings have had a great influence on Tibetan religion and culture, and are practiced by all the major sects of Tibetan Buddhism. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has placed special emphasis on these teachings as being of great benefit during the times we are now living in and has given this initiation to many people in various locations around the world.
The mantra, "Om Mani Padme Hung" is the six syllable prayer associated with Chenrezig - the Lord of Compassion. The eight auspicious symbols are a very popular way of depicting the traditionally ascribed benefits and positive characteristics of the Buddhist teachings.

 

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