The Eight Auspicious Symbols have their origin in India, where they were offered to a king at the time of his coronation. Over time, they took on a religious significance, and are now commonly found depicted in various forms. In Buddhism, these offerings symbolize the gifts given to Shakyamuni Buddha by the worldly gods after his attainment of enlightenment, but can also represent various aspects of the Buddha’s enlightened body.

The eight auspicious symbols are the most commonly used motifs in both Tibetan religious and folk art. Tibetans also have a wonderful tradition of tracing them on the ground in powder or chalk to mark the arrival of a renowned religious teacher.

This appliquéd wall hanging depicts a vase that features all eight symbols.