Saddle rug

Tibetans are equestrians, and saddle rugs not only provide warmth and comfort for their horses but also show off the owners' wealth. This rug is framed by a row of white pearl drops on a red ground, blue and white T-shaped motifs, and two swastikas—auspicious symbols in Tibet—in the middle section of the border. The sides are decorated with longevity (shou) medallions and white "frog's footprint" motifs. This example is edged with red felt, often seen on Tibetan saddle rugs.