An antique 19th Century or earlier tsakli painting, depicting, a truly splendid and unusual rendition of Zhambala, the God of Wealth and guardian of the North. Within roiling clouds in an otherwise tranquil sky, and atop a large gilt-embellished cushion (filled with treasure?) stands the deity - his principal attribute, the jewel-spitting mongoose held in the crook of his left arm, a fluttering canopy in his right. He wears a suit of armour over trousers and boots, a white scarf at his throat, while a green and red cloak swirls about him. Within a gold edged green nimbus, his bearded face is calm beneath a high chignon and flowing locks of hair. An affixing tab to the reverse. 10.3 x 13.5cm