Woodwork within the interiors of the monasteries is the best example of the Ladakhi tradition of carving wood. The most ubiquitous piece of furniture amongst Ladakhi homes and monasteries is the 'chokste'. The 'chokste' is a low heighted wooden table oblong in shape that measures approximately 3 ft by 1.5 ft in size. It is intricately carved and finely painted in vivid colors, bringing out the auspicious dragons and symbols of Buddhism. The heavily ornamental carving is done upon soft wood, which is either simply polished, or is painted and then varnished. Floral motifs, patterns derived from the swastika, an amalgamation of the eight Buddhist symbols, auspicious animals like the lion, dragon and the Garuda deity along with peacocks can be found frequently carved upon tables, linings above the traditional windows, pillars and banisters. Contrasting to the grays of the landscapes; the woodwork is usually vibrantly painted, almost as a strong reaction to it. However, the simplicity of the natural, unpainted, polished carvings is also subtly overpowering. The Lasthang monastery, also residence or 'potala' of the Dalai Lama demonstrates clearly how the entire look and feel of the space has been dominated by intricately done wooden carvings that cover every inch of the monastery walls.