Rectangular amulet box

Amulet Containers of Tibet

Amulet containers (gau) are some of the most important personal adornments in Tibet. This container for small images, printed prayers and charms, molded tablets of protective deities, and other relics has traditionally been worn by both men and women to ward off evil. The top of the gau, usually of silver, has fine filigree work and is sometimes embellished with turquoise and coral; the plain back is removable so objects can be inserted. Elaborate examples worn by the elite are made of gold and turquoise. While women wear their gau on a short necklace around their necks, strung with turquoise, coral, or banded agates, a man’s gau is larger and often shaped like a shrine. A traveler straps the gau to the arm or wears it across the chest bandolier style. The traveling gau is sometimes encased in brocade and is placed on the family altar when not in use.