ovoid box with hinged cover; three raised characters on back; raised characters under cover; cover decorated with yali head on top, with various inlaid gems (primarily turquoise) and wire filigree; inlaid multicolred gems around edges of box; tara inside with turquoise inlay and gems on crown, holding filigree flowers

Gahu Amulet Box, 19th century

Unknown artist, expand_more

Charm, or amulet, cases often contained sacred prayers, objects blessed by a lama (teacher), or even fragments of a monk’s robe. They were commonly worn by women around the neck and by men attached to a belt or saddlebag. Here, the scrolling filigree work is inlaid with precious stones in the form of a Kirtimukha, or face of glory, meant to ward off evil spirits. The clasp takes the shape of a vajra, or thunderbolt, a symbol of enlightenment.

Details
Title
Gahu Amulet Box
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2006.46
Curator Approved

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ovoid box with hinged cover; three raised characters on back; raised characters under cover; cover decorated with yali head on top, with various inlaid gems (primarily turquoise) and wire filigree; inlaid multicolred gems around edges of box; tara inside with turquoise inlay and gems on crown, holding filigree flowers