The tiger, though not a native species, holds a special place in Tibetan culture. It is associated with majesty, authority, power, strength, and fearlessness. In earlier times, tiger pelts were worn in battle; certain deities, or siddhas (spiritually perfected beings), adepts and great teachers, are often depicted either seated on a tiger pelt or, sometimes, wearing one. The importance of the tiger in Tibetan culture continues to this day. Garments made using actual tiger pelts are so much in demand in Tibet that the trade has resulted in the virtual extinction of the Bengal tiger in India, including its loss by persistent poaching from protected game reserves. The almost luminous synthetic dyes of this example indicate that it was produced relatively recently, yet it is very much in keeping with the longstanding tradition of donning or sitting on tiger pelts. Such rugs are still sought after in Tibet.

Tiger pelt rug
Tibet
20th century
Wool; knotted pile
Bruce Westcott
Photo by Don Tuttle Photography

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