Cylinder Lidded Box, Bhutan

Domed round box on three clawed feet, with big raised characters on its sides.

This gilded copper cylinder lidded box is from Bhutan, and dates to the 20th century. Bhutanese metalworkers have a tradition of working copper, which is relatively soft and well suited to hammering, shaping and gilding. Drum-shaped body in dark brown with a bright rim, standing on three small paw-like feet. Large raised characters in yellow metal are applied around the sides. The domed lid carries a small turquoise-colored inset and a sharp pointed finial. It is 4 inches wide, 4 deep and 5 high.

Short legs, tall finial and total conviction.