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Yaksha "Tao Suvan" Guardian of the Gates Large Prayer Cloth, A
$ 3.00
- Yaksha "Tao Suvan" Entrance Guardian Large Prayer Cloth, A
- Thai text translation: "Tao Suvan Paper Cloth. Protects From Evil Spirits. Prevents Bad Energies".
- Yakshas are an important element in Thai Temple art and architecture. They are often depicted as Guardians of the Gates in Buddhist temples throughout the country since at least the 14th century. They are mostly depicted having big round bulging eyes and protruding fangs, as well as a green complexion. Yakshas and their female counterparts are common in the Buddhist literature of Thailand, such as in The Twelve Sisters and Phra Aphai Mani. As Ogres, Giants, and Ogresses, Yakshas are present as well in Thai folklore.
- Yaksha, also spelled Yaksa, are revered as generally benevolent but sometimes mischievous, capricious, sexually rapacious, or even murderous nature spirits who are the custodians of treasures that are hidden in the earth and in the roots of trees. They are powerful magicians and shape-shifters.
- Yakshas were often given homage as Devas of a city, district, lake, or well. Their worship, together with popular belief in Nagas (Serpent Deities), Feminine Fertility Deities, and Mother Goddesses, may have had its origin among the early indigenous peoples of India. Yaksha worship coexisted with the priest-conducted sacrifices of the Vedic period.
- In art, sculptures of Yakshas were among the earliest of Deities to be depicted, apparently preceding images of the Bodhisattvas and of Brahmanical Deities, whose representation they influenced. They also were the prototypes for the attendants of Gods and Kings in later Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain art.
- Measures Approx. 10 1/2" x 7"
- Material: 100% cotton sheet printed with ink
- Origin is Thailand