Tibetan gau, XIX century. Silver plated metal, leather and crystal. It shows signs of wear and tear. Measurements: 18 x 13 x 5 cm. Tibetan gau or reliquary made of chiseled metal and decorated with vegetal borders in relief, an intricate ornamentation characteristic of these amulets. It is housed in a leather case and has an image of Boddisattva protected by glass. It is shaped like a box with a lobed finial in a pointed arch. Gaus are used to contain sacred relics, talismans, mantras printed on paper or parchment, or small statues of deities. It is believed that wearing a Gau close to the body provides spiritual protection.

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