Tibetan Gao or Prayer Box

Today, a little arched shrine case holds a red-robed figure behind its dark metal doorway.

This gao or prayer box is from Tibet, and dates to the 19th century. It is silver. Tibetan silverwork is often worked by hammering and chasing, and the gau box commonly has a hinged or removable back and a front set with a cutout or panel. Overall, a small dark metal case with a pointed arched top and a loop handle at the crown. A recessed opening frames a painted seated figure in red and teal tones, softly faded. The metal surface is dark brown with a worn, rubbed finish. It is 1.5 inches wide, 2 deep and 1 high.

A pocket-sized sanctuary with a very dignified front door.