A set of twenty fine Mongolian Drawings on paper, early 20th century, [20], depicting peaceful & wrathful deities making offerings, 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. 8.5 x 7 cm, 11.5 x 9 cm