{"product_id":"tibetan-horse-mask-takyab-cinnabar-vase-of-abundance","title":"Tibetan Horse Mask\/Yak Takyab | Cinnabar Vase of Abundance","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn antique Tibetan takyab horse or yak mask from the late 19th–early 20th century, hand-knotted in Himalayan wool on a vibrant cinnabar ground. The central motif — a stylised floral form rising from a Buddhist vase of abundance — unfolds symmetrically with naïve, poetic charm. Approx. 19 cm (H) x 17 cm (W). Original ties visible on reverse. Mounted in a white frame with cream cotton edge covering and patterned multicoloured cotton back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis delightful and highly expressive ornament was once affixed to the forehead of a horse or yak — animals of profound importance in Tibetan life, both practical and symbolic. Such pieces were not merely decorative; they served as talismanic protectors, believed to safeguard the animal and its rider from misfortune during travel across the harsh Himalayan terrain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition is centred around a stylised floral motif emerging from a vase-like form — a symbol deeply rooted in Buddhist iconography. This \"vase of abundance\" (often associated with prosperity and spiritual wealth) gives rise to a blossoming form that unfolds symmetrically across the field. The drawing is naïve yet poetic, imbued with a spontaneous charm that speaks directly of the weaver's hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe vibrant cinnabar ground — a colour associated with protection, vitality, and sacred energy — acts as a luminous field against which the floral elements gently float. The scrolling green stems and softly outlined petals introduce a sense of organic movement, while the slightly irregular symmetry enhances the piece's authenticity and vitality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe contour itself — cut into a winged, almost heraldic shape — reinforces its protective function. It frames the central motif like an emblem or crest, transforming the ornament into a visual invocation of well-being and auspicious passage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the reverse, the original fabric backing — now beautifully aged — reveals how the piece was secured, with remnants of ties still visible. This duality between front and back tells a complete story: one of beauty presented outwardly, and functionality quietly supporting it from behind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAge: Late 19th to early 20th century\u003cbr\u003eCondition: Structurally sound and well preserved overall, considering its use and well-developed patina commensurate with its age.\u003cbr\u003eColours (5): Cinnabar red \/ ivory \/ dark indigo blue \/ soft sage green \/ muted apricot — coal — faded rose\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: Approx. 19 cm (H) x 17 cm (W) \/ approx. 3.5 in (H) x 6.69 in (W)\u003cbr\u003ePresentation: Rare ethnographic textile mounted in a white frame. Edges covered in cream cotton; back lined with patterned multicoloured cotton.\u003cbr\u003eTechnical: Warp — wool \/ Weft — wool \/ Pile — hand-knotted wool (cut pile), medium to coarse gauge; spun from resilient, lanolin-rich Himalayan wool\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Pino De Giosa Art Collection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43779945627713,"sku":"310","price":0.0,"currency_code":"SGD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0683\/4782\/2145\/files\/tibetan-horse-mask-takyab-cinnabar-vase-of-abundance-front.jpg?v=1776412111","url":"https:\/\/pdg.art\/products\/tibetan-horse-mask-takyab-cinnabar-vase-of-abundance","provider":"Pino De Giosa Art Collection","version":"1.0","type":"link"}