Tibetan Gao or Prayer Box

A pocket shrine, glazed and sealed, with a seated Buddha inside.

Tibetan makers fashioned this gao, or prayer box, in silver in the 19th century. Gau boxes are commonly worn as amulets or carried while traveling, holding a small image or blessed items for protection. The arched case has a dark, tarnished frame and a small loop at the top for suspension. Behind the window sits a painted Buddha in red robes against a golden halo. The paint is soft and worn.

About 3 inches tall. A shrine that fits in a pocket, and in the palm.