As with so many Bhutanese forms and designs, the crown is based on traditional Chinese examples, but with additional Buddhist and Bhutanese symbols. The crown is so named after the raven’s head added to the top of the crown. This head is made of appliqué and embellished with embroidery. The raven has for long been the sacred bird in Bhutan and represents the Buddhist and Hindu deity, Mahakala. The crown, and in particular its rim, is decorated with various embroidered designs.
Original source of illustration.
Gillian Vogelsang