Amulet box or ga'u

1964.232.31

Part of

Tibet collection

This internationally significant collection of over 2,000 Tibetan objects gives an insight into the lives of British India officers connected to Tibet and the Himalayas.

Exhibition

Currently on display in World Cultures, Level 3, World Museum

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About this object

A man's large silver amulet box or ga'u decorated with gilt covered Eight Auspicious Emblems and a wish-granting jewel at the top and a stylised dragon’s head at the bottom. There is a peacock feather visible from the window as the peacock was reputed to swallow poison without harm, the bird and its tail feathers symbolise immortality and the eradication of all spiritual poisons.

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Object specifics

Type

Religion; Container
Culture

Tibetan
Artist/Maker
Place made

Asia: Central Asia: Tibet [China]
Date made

19th Century
Materials

Copper Alloy; Silver; Metal Gilt; Wool Felt; Peacock Feather
Location

World Museum, Level 3, World Cultures
Acquisition

Purchased From The Tibet Society
Collector
Place collected

Europe: Northern Europe: UK: England: London
Date collected

1964 before
Measurements

180 mm x 160 mm x 62 mm
Note

Curator's note: The history file tells us that this item was sold by a Tibetan refugee, via The Tibet Society, for £14.0.0/-. The inventory also makes note of a bag for the ga'u.

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