Yaksha

The Yakshas (and their female counterparts, Yakshinis) are among the oldest beings in Indic religion, attested in Vedic literature as guardians of the wild places. Their king is Kubera, lord of wealth.

Over millennia they have been absorbed into both Buddhist and Jain cosmologies, appearing as guardian figures at the gates of stupas and temples across Asia, from Bharhut in India to the temples of Java and Thailand.

Typically depicted as robust, powerful beings with a round belly and jewelled crown — rich, well-fed, standing in attitudes of guardianship. Yakshinis are extraordinarily beautiful, often holding a tree branch.

Guardianship of wilderness and hidden treasure. Ability to grant wealth and fertility. Extraordinary strength. Can shape-shift at will. Their blessings increase prosperity; their curses bring sudden misfortune.