The endangered snow leopard is found in mountainous areas of Pakistan, however, the numbers are only estimated to be 200-400. I was never lucky enough to see one in the wild there. There was the occasional rumour of one in the Islamabad Hills, there were a number of sightings, small animals disappearing etc. I do know there were also jackals, wild pigs and monkeys in the hills and they would occasionally venture into the suburbs.
What I did see though were these wonderful mirror covered plaster leopards. The were known as "disco- leopards" within the expat/diplomatic community and many of us purchased one. Most of them did not survive the trip back to the owners home country. Mine proudly sits in the entry at my house, fortunately the damage was only to the base, I made some repairs but it is still a little fragile. I don't know anyone who opted for the painted leopard, we all wanted the mirrored one. The red glass eyes are creepy though, so I often give him a pat to assure his allegiance to me. I have a friend going on a posting there and am contemplating asking him to get me another one, or one of the painted ones. I have a fondness for kitsch.
I saw a lot of different handicrafts covered in these little mirrors, including a variety of furniture items, tables, chairs and even models of mosques.
So much for the adage that a Leopard can't change his spots, those you can spot from a mile away. Maybe several miles! We have lots of similar kitsch from Mexico easily purchased while waiting to cross the border back into the US. Cool find, hot piece of decor.
These are so kitschy!. I am enjoying your reminiscing and learning about the foreign cultures that you have experienced. The art is so different and unexpected.
Gotta love kitsch! These are so cool, and rather fascinating too. Can't imagine what the sun must look like reflecting off one of those 8-) Glad to hear they're friendly, that mouth sure does look scary!
