The raven crown

The raven is a protective deity in Bhutanese tradition, linked to Mahakala, a guardian of the teaching. The royal crown carries the raven's head as its central form.

A bird on a crown, and the protection it stands for.

The crown is worn on ceremonial occasions. It is a statement of role as much as of rank, tying the monarchy to the country's religious life.

The raven also appears in the design lineage of Bhutan's symbols, a small figure of protection carried at the top of the state.