NORTH CHINA, CIRCA 1880

In Buddhist teachings the tiger is one of four animals associated with the Kagyu lineages of Tibetan Buddhism. This majestic animal is associated with compassion and generosity as well as being a symbol of strength and military prowess. Tigers were indigenous to eastern Tibet where the Wutun Monastery is located. Buddhists monks were occasionally depicted wearing the pelt of a tiger and chieftans and illustrous figures were noted seated upon their skins as, according to Mimi Lipton, only those in power and authority had the right to own or use tiger rugs whether it be to cover their horse or their throne as Songsen Gampo, the first king of Tibet, did in the 7th century, (Lipton, op.cit, p.11).