An antique, 19th Century tsakli painting depicting one of the auspicious animals of the 4 directions - the Snow Lion representing the northerly, mountainous direction. In Milarepa's prophetic dream a great mountain appeared surrounded by 4 directional pillars on which stood 4 creatures - tyhe Snow Lion, Tiger, Eagle and Vulture. Marpa's interpretation of the dream was that the mountain was the Kagyupa teachings, and the 4 creatures his 4 great disciples who foretold of the stability of the unbroken transmission of Mahamudra teachings. Behind the Snow Lion are the vajra-handled iron sword and rthe bow and arrow - weapons to defend the dharma. A Terma syllable and a line of text to the reverse side. 9.4 x 12cm