The Yak and Its Shadow

Yak: a being to whom a way of life is owed

There’s a Tibetan saying: “Of horses, yaks, and sheep—these three, the herder depends on.” It reflects just how vital these animal companions are to the livelihood of pastoral communities.

The coarse outer hair of the yak is spun and woven into fabric, used to make tents for shelter. Yak hide becomes boots, containers, and bags. The hair, skin, and sinew are turned into ropes for different purposes. Even the yak’s tail can be fashioned into a broom. In some cases, specific yak bones—by their natural shape—are used as structural joints to support the wooden poles within the tent.

Yak meat and milk, of course, provide essential nourishment. From the milk come butter and sun-dried curds—two key ingredients which, along with yak milk tea, form the foundation of tsampa, the staple food of the highlands. Beyond food, yak butter is also burned in butter lamps for religious rituals, and used as a natural skin balm in the cold, dry climate of the plateau.

Yaks also serve as pack animals, transporting goods across vast distances. Even dried yak dung—abundant and flammable—is the most important fuel source in regions where firewood is scarce.

In short, every part of the yak—its hair, hide, bones, flesh, milk and even dung—sustains the nomadic way of life. It’s no wonder the Tibetan people hold a deep sense of gratitude toward this animal. Yaks are valued not just for what they give, but for the way they make life itself possible.

No Two Yaks Look Alike

They say that truly dedicated herders can recognize every single yak in their care—each one even has its own name.

Each one has a different look in its eyes—some seem completely spaced out, some look mildly grumpy, some a bit shocked, and one or two definitely give off boss vibes.

Some yaks are firmly stuffed with wool and look strong and sturdy; others seem slouched and sleepy, like they’d rather not move. Line them up and they make quite the herd. The hands of our Tibetan artisans are always full of surprises—just like the artisans themselves. No two yaks are the same, and each one carries its own little personality and charm.

Let’s see which one finds its way to you!