Tapestry of Loka-Nat
This tapestry design has many motifs typical to Myanmar folklore and religious iconography. The prominent centre is the image of guardian spirit, Loka-Nat whose image is a symbol of peace and friendship. The story of the Loka-Nat is about two celestial beings, an elephant and a lion, who clash while feeding on clouds, when the Loka-Nat offers sprigs of Eugenia, clashes cymbals with his feet, and sings a song of peace. The two celestial beings are appeased by Loka-Nat and make peace. The elephant and the lion are important symbols in Myanmar culture and convey fraternity and peace. More symbols surround the centre, such as elephants for the teak industry, people of the agricultural industry, temples, and spired monasteries. The four corners display lotus flowers on top of conch shells and traditional Myanmar styles of dance poses.
Many craftspeople contributed to the many materials used, including semi-precious stones, silver sequins, and gold thread. Myanmar has long practiced rich tapestry traditions, needlework stitching and techniques, since before 1753. This embroidery technique is used in costumes for Kings, Queens, State ministers, and important events. To make this fine brocade and tapestry artwork, master artists were consulted in May 1989 and produced a sample design of 26” by 60”. The final tapestry was fabricated in Ywathit Quarter, Mandalay North West Township and was supervised by Brocade Embroidery Master, Mr. U Sein Myint. It was completed by twenty women embroiders in traditional technique by December 1989.
The ceremony and presentation of the gift took place on 23 February 1990. The Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Myanmar, Mr. U. Ohn Cyaw, presented the gift to the United Nations and Secretary-General Javier Perez de Cuellar accepted it on behalf of the United Nations.