As lanterns light up skies across Asia, Ta'er Monastery in northwest China's Qinghai Province unveils its dazzling butter sculptures – delicate masterpieces crafted from dyed yak butter that combine spiritual symbolism with artistic innovation. This centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist tradition, timed with the first full moon of the lunar year, transforms simple dairy products into vibrant floral motifs and deity figures that shimmer under festival lights.
A Tradition Steeped in Devotion
Monks begin sculpting weeks in advance, working with chilled butter to create intricate designs before temperatures rise. The temporary artworks symbolize Buddhism's teachings on impermanence, melting away by spring’s arrival. “These sculptures are our prayer in physical form,” explains a monastery spokesperson, “melting as all things must, but leaving lasting impressions.”
Cultural Fusion in Butter
This year's display features over 50 pieces blending traditional motifs with contemporary ecological themes. One standout sculpture depicts endangered snow leopards prowling through butter-crafted Qinghai meadows, reflecting growing environmental consciousness among monastic communities.
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Butter sculptures 'bloom' at Ta'er Monastery during Lantern Festival
cgtn.com
