In the Tibetan tradition, the term “oracle” applies to the spirit of a deity that enters a medium – either a man or a woman – like a “vessel” and speaks through that person’s mouth. The Nechung state oracle holds sway over all others.
This ritual garment was made for the Nechung state oracle, which today is located in Dharamsala, India, the seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile. Since it did not fit the current medium, the Museum Rietberg was able to purchase it.