Jokhang Temple

Jokhang Temple

Potala Palace

Dhvaja

Lhasa, Tibet

These Tibetan Victory Banners are derived from military standards of the region. They symbolize the triumph of Buddhism over its political and religious enemies. They are made of gilt copper, wood, or cloth. As apotropaic objects that protect against evil, they are usually found on the rooftop corners of Tibetan temples and palaces. The decoration of the gilt banner on the left is especially interesting: in the middle of the design is a kala, the protective face from ancient India.