Tapesty

Tapestry – a throne covering. It was woven by hand using a technique called K’o-ssu. It is decorated with strongly geometrised motifs of a crane against a background of colourful clouds (at the top), a golden dragon, a stylised lotus surrounded by Buddhist symbols – the Eight Precious Things. The lower part shows stylised waves, islands of Immortals and two cranes. These motifs are arranged with silk threads, pasted one next to the other on paper. Fabric of silk threads and gold jap – a thread wrapped in wire, dating to the 18th century. The eight symbols are objects associated with important events in the life of Buddha Shakyamuni. They represent the eight qualities of the Buddha’s enlightened body. It is believed that offering them is particularly auspicious as it creates good omens for the future. They are usually offered together with the Eight Auspicious Substances and the Seven Royal Treasures. The eight symbols are: a white parasol, a conch shell, a treasure vase, a victory banner, a dharma wheel, a pair of golden fish, an endless knot, and a lotus flower (four per each tapestry).