The making of... The Wind Horse

THE WIND HORSE

The Wind Horse (རླུང་རྟ།) brings the gift of luck and good fortune. As it ascends the mountain, it soars upon the air and bears the flaming jewel that fulfils all wishes. On its back rides the tiny mongoose, expelling brightly coloured jewels from its mouth; a sign of prosperity. The Wind Horse is the pivotal element in the centre of the four animals symbolising the cardinal directions (Tiger, Lion, Garuda, Dragon).

ILLUSTRATION IN PROGRESS

Each drawing takes between 4-6 weeks to complete; Sabina usually begins with the face of the primary animal and works the design outwards from there, adding and designing details as she goes.

The Wind Horse is wearing a Tibetan tiger rug as a saddle cloth, with a Tibetan bridle and saddle set inspired by items from The Met Museum. The Wind Horse carries the flaming jewel that fulfills all wishes on its back and is galloping in front of an arc of prayer flags, each featuring their own tiny Wind Horse as per the traditional design.

Along the top edge of the drawing sits a row of intricate Tibetan stirrups, each featuring a carved silver or brass ga’u box hanging within it. Each ga’u box holds an amulet inside to protect the wearer, acting as an auspicious charm.