Carved wood restpaintedTibet , 17th centuryDimensions: Height 13 cm by 36 cmWeight: 473,1 gramsWooden book covers like these were used in temples and monasteries to protect the written texts and to be stored in shelves. The more important the text the more elaborate these book covers were designed. With wood also being of scarcity in Tibet, it also signifies their reverence.The outer bands are of ornamental shapes of a lotus flower petal, followed by simple and beaded lines. In the center is a panel with eight circles showing the "Eight Auspicious Symbols of Buddhism" which are:Parasol, Two Golden Fish, Lotus Flower, Conch Shell, Treasure Vase, Endless Knot, Victory Banner, Dharma Wheel. Each symbol has its own meanings and they are often the attribute of certain gods and deities. The backside of the book cover is rest-painted with eight circles in the center panel.