Description:

Central Asia, Tibet, ca. first half of the 20th century CE. A silvered brass gau prayer box used as a personal shrine for traveling practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism heavily decorated with Buddhist imagery, clouds, and geometric motifs. The gau has a flat base, a steepled top, and a central window that once displayed a petite figurine of Buddha. A pair of thin strap loops protrude from either side. Gau like this example were typically worn as an ornament during festivals and kept in a prayer niche in a family home when not in use. Size: 4.5" W x 5.8" H (11.4 cm x 14.7 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-private New Jersey, USA collection, acquired in India in the 1950s to 1970s

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#173967

  • Condition: Original contents of gau missing. Slight bending to overall form of prayer box and verso panel with verso panel slightly loose. Otherwise, intact and very nice with light patina and great remaining details. String tied to side loops.

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November 17, 2022 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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