A set of twelve fine Mongolian Drawings on paper, early 20th century, [12], depicting wrathful & peaceful deities, Tsakali cards were used by travelling Buddhist teachers moving from one monastery to another in order to teach & initiate others in Vajrayana Buddhist teachings. When laid on the ground in the form of a mandala, they functioned to create a fixed sacred space like that of a temple. The deities shown on these initiation cards can include the Tathagata Buddha's, various bodhisattvas, fierce protectors, & the possible realms of rebirth. Provenance: Todd Barlin collection. 11.5 x 10 cm, 11.5 x 7 cm