Tibetan Astrological Yantras | Set of Five Red-Ink Ritual Diagrams on Handmade Paper | 19th–Early 20th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Tibet or Himalayan Plateau
Material: Red ink on handmade paper (mounted in modern acrylic display)
Period: Circa 1800s–early 1900s
Description
This rare set comprises five circular Tibetan astrological yantras, each hand-printed in deep red ink on traditional handmade paper. The designs feature sacred diagrams, Tibetan script, and symbolic motifs intended to embody cosmic balance, spiritual protection, and Buddhist cosmology. The talismans vary in layout: some depict lotus petals, others the Eight Auspicious Symbols, while others incorporate a yin-yang form surrounded by flames and mantras. Such diagrams were created by monks or ritual specialists as protective and spiritual tools, aligned with the Kalachakra (Wheel of Time) tradition. The set has been professionally mounted in a modern acrylic display panel for preservation, allowing these delicate works of ritual art to be admired while protected.
Features
- Set of five distinct yantras
- Symmetrical mandala-style layouts in red ink on handmade paper
- Variations include lotus motifs, auspicious symbols, and yin-yang imagery
- Traces of ritual wear and pigment transfer on the reverse
Cultural Significance
Yantras in Tibetan Buddhism were tools for astrological divination, healing, and energetic protection. They were commonly placed in temples, shrines, stupas, or worn in garments as talismans, extending protective blessings to individuals and communities. Each diagram was believed to channel cosmic forces and divine energies, balancing the material and spiritual realms. As artifacts of ritual life, these yantras embody the fusion of Buddhist philosophy, cosmology, and practical spirituality in the Himalayan tradition.
Condition
Good antique condition with minor staining, edge wear, and small perforations consistent with devotional use and age. No restoration noted. Modern acrylic frame is removable.
Dimensions (approximate)
Each talisman: 3 x 3 in
Acrylic panel: 10 x 8 in
Age
Estimated 100–150 years old — circa 19th–early 20th century
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Tibet or Himalayan Plateau
Material: Red ink on handmade paper (mounted in modern acrylic display)
Period: Circa 1800s–early 1900s
Description
This rare set comprises five circular Tibetan astrological yantras, each hand-printed in deep red ink on traditional handmade paper. The designs feature sacred diagrams, Tibetan script, and symbolic motifs intended to embody cosmic balance, spiritual protection, and Buddhist cosmology. The talismans vary in layout: some depict lotus petals, others the Eight Auspicious Symbols, while others incorporate a yin-yang form surrounded by flames and mantras. Such diagrams were created by monks or ritual specialists as protective and spiritual tools, aligned with the Kalachakra (Wheel of Time) tradition. The set has been professionally mounted in a modern acrylic display panel for preservation, allowing these delicate works of ritual art to be admired while protected.
Features
- Set of five distinct yantras
- Symmetrical mandala-style layouts in red ink on handmade paper
- Variations include lotus motifs, auspicious symbols, and yin-yang imagery
- Traces of ritual wear and pigment transfer on the reverse
Cultural Significance
Yantras in Tibetan Buddhism were tools for astrological divination, healing, and energetic protection. They were commonly placed in temples, shrines, stupas, or worn in garments as talismans, extending protective blessings to individuals and communities. Each diagram was believed to channel cosmic forces and divine energies, balancing the material and spiritual realms. As artifacts of ritual life, these yantras embody the fusion of Buddhist philosophy, cosmology, and practical spirituality in the Himalayan tradition.
Condition
Good antique condition with minor staining, edge wear, and small perforations consistent with devotional use and age. No restoration noted. Modern acrylic frame is removable.
Dimensions (approximate)
Each talisman: 3 x 3 in
Acrylic panel: 10 x 8 in
Age
Estimated 100–150 years old — circa 19th–early 20th century
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