The 'kata' or scarf is customarily used by Tibetans as an offering given in greeting. It is an auspicious symbol offered to mark the beginning of an auspicious enterprise or relationship and indicates the good intentions of the person offering it. 'Katas' are also offered to religious images such as images of the Buddha or to lamas and government officials. This particular ‘kata’ woven in fine Chinese silk is known as the 'dzod tak' characterised by the motif of the Buddhist symbols or 'ashtamangala'.' The design features the eight auspicious Buddhist emblems: the umbrella, the overflowing pot, the wheel, the lotus, the double fish, conch, infinite knot and banner.

Asian Art Department, AGNSW, August 2000