Central Asia, Tibet, ca. first half of the 20th century CE. A mold-formed copper gau prayer box used as a personal shrine for traveling practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism. The tall gau has a flat base, a steepled top, and a central window displaying a seated Buddha figurine. The obverse panel is heavily decorated with Buddhist imagery, clouds, foliate motifs, and Tibetan symbols in repousse, and behind the removable back panel are several colorful prayer flags. An attractive brocade cloth carrying case accompanies the gau and enables it to be easily transported from one location to another. 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. A stupendous example of fine Tibetan religious artistry! Size: 13.5" W x 14.8" H (34.3 cm x 37.6 cm).

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection

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#148326

Slight bending to overall form of prayer box and verso panel, with fraying and loosening to some threads of carrying case, fading to original coloration of case, and light softening to some repousse details, otherwise intact and very good. Light earthen deposits and nice patina throughout.