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Tibetan Copper Gau Traveling Shrine Box browse these categories for related items... All Items: Antiques:Regional Art:Asian:Southeast Asian:Metalwork: Pre 1900: item # 297052 Please refer to our stock # 6-182 when inquiring.
B & C Antiques P. O. Box 291 Derby, CT 06418 203-929-7312 Guest Book $295 |
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| This portable charm box, in the shape of a shrine which holds the image of a deity or Buddhist amulet, is made of copper and decorated with beautiful repoussé work. Tibet, 19th century. The front of the ornamental box is decorated with the eight auspicious symbols identified in the Buddhist faith and the monster mask of Kirtimukha. The plain copper backing is removable to accommodate the items that the owner chooses to place inside, and there are two copper loops on each side to hold a belt or strap. There is a small piece of glass for the shrine window, which is crudely cut and appears to be of later origin. Charm boxes or gau are a mainstay of Tibetan culture, and they are worn by Buddhist peoples living in other central Asian countries as well. Traditionally, these portable shrines were made to contain a small image of the owner’s personal deity when traveling. They can also contain written prayers, miniature paintings, relics or other special amulets that are designed to protect the individual from evil spirits. In a Tibetan home a gau is kept on an altar, but it is fastened to a belt and worn when the owner travels. (See the wonderful cover article in ARTS OF ASIA May-June 2001 entitled “Ga’u: The Tibetan Amulet Box” by John Clarke.) Condition is excellent considering its age and usage. Dimensions: 4 ¼” high, 3 1/8” wide, 1 ½” deep. | |||||||||||||
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