Potala Palace: Mandala of Guhyasamaja

CHINA, Tibet, Lhasa

This round mandala is 150 cm high and has a diameter of 300 cm. The side of the base is decorated with patterns, and on the base itself, there is a multi-corner hall and palace. The outermost ring of the mandala shows eight charnel grounds alongside undulating plants and different types of birds. The inner rings include a flame wheel and a vajra wheel. The palace stands in the center of the mandala, on each side of which there is a gate with a vajra in front of the stairs. The eaves, lintels, and walls of the palace are inlaid with turquoise and colorful gems. There are banners and a number of canopies on the rooftop, upon which there are four round tiers followed by a golden pyramidal roof. At each corner of the roof stands an auspicious creature. The spire consists of a square harmika, an inverted bowl, a vase and finial.