Tibetan Turquoise Ga’u Box

This Tibetan turquoise-laden ga’u or amulet box is made of a silver front set with turquoise cabochons, sides of hammered iron overlaid with a lattice-work of silver filigree, and a backing plate of hammered iron sheet.

The box retains all its original turquoise cabochon stones of which there are many – each of a rich hue and with splendid patina. It is further decorated with ‘pearled’ silver wired edging on the front.

The ga’u was worn suspended from a now-worn silver tube attached to the top.

The lower section has a silver dorje motif attached to which is another smaller silver loop from which more items could be suspended or attached as desired.

The overall form of the ga’u itself is a double-square. Such examples were worn by women particularly in and around Lhasa.

Overall, the ga’u has a dark patina and obvious age and wear. The turquoise has a beautiful colour and contrasts pleasingly with the silver surrounds. It is in fine condition with obvious, significant age.