It is to the inerent harmony in nature that the Buddha spent his life teaching fellow human beings to imbibe. In the centre of this superb repoussé wall hanging are the four creatures whose friendship has been the embodiment of intrinsic harmony in Tibetain Buddhist folklore: the bird who inspires the same in those with wings, the elephant in those with fangs, the hare in those with paws, and the monkey in those with fur. The stronger the manifestation of intrinsic harmony in one's existence, the likelier one's chances of improved rebirth.
The underlying theme of this work of art is the decided possibility of the intercaste harmony. The four harmonious friends are surrounded by the twelve zodiac signs in confirmation with Tibetan astrology. Tibetan astrology draws from Indian, Chinese, and Buddhist influences as well as the tantra of the nameless religion of the Bon people of Tibet. These zodiac signs have as much to do with the annual cycle as they have with the usual monthly cycle observable in other schools of astrology.
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist