Material Memories

For many Tibetans fleeing into exile, the harsh realities of their journey across the Himalayas meant abandoning most of their belongings. They often describe their arrival in exile with the poignant phrase, “without a cup to carry in the pocket!” The stories are numerous of how Tibetans hid valuable possessions in the mountains and valleys, with the hope of retrieving them upon returning to Tibet.

Upon reaching safety, survival often required the harsh reality of trading or selling these precious artifacts for food or at a fraction of their worth. Yet, many clung to their treasured items, passing them down through generations as tangible links to their lost homeland.