Exploring the World of the Great Kublai Khan

Mahakala of the Tent
The Yuan dynasty oversaw a revival of Buddhism in China, which had lapsed in preceding centuries. They practiced, by and large, a more esoteric, Tibetan strain of Buddhism, replete with terrifying spirits and protective deities. The Mahakala of the Tent was of particular importance to the Yuan and this small stone totem was likely carried to war, affixed, perhaps, to the helmet of a soldier.

• Treasures from the Forbidden City