The yak lies in the most reverent of postures, prostrate atop the summit of the Potala Palace—its horns curved like crescent moons cradling the palace’s golden spire, its head slightly raised as it gazes calmly toward the distant snow-capped peaks. Far from being reduced to a toy, the Potala Palace stands majestically upon the yak’s broad back, its layered walls harmoniously echoing the undulating contours of the yak’s ribs, as if this architectural marvel was always meant to emerge from the very warmth and vitality of life itself.

The yak serves as the palace’s foundation, while the palace crowns the yak’s spiritual essence.