Early 20th Century Tibetan Gau Traveling Shrine

Details

Description

Tibetan traveling shrines, known as Gau, were believed to offer protective powers and were used to hold and carry sacred … Read more Tibetan traveling shrines, known as Gau, were believed to offer protective powers and were used to hold and carry sacred objects during long journeys. Crafted over a century ago, a Buddhist follower may have purchased this intricate gau while on religious pilgrimage to a temple or holy site. Rich with symbolism and artistry, the shrine has been elevated on a custom steel mount to live on as a storied sculptural object.

The face of the shrine is repoussé silver alloy, patterned in low relief with cloud-like scrollwork and Buddhist motifs. At the top is the cintamani, or wish-fulfilling jewel, shown here as a cluster of flaming pearls. At the bottom is the kirtimukha, or ‘face of glory,’ a powerful demon believed to be a fearsome guardian of thresholds and sacred spaces.

Lining the sides are the Eight Auspicious symbols, including the parasol, the banner of victory, the conch shell, the lotus, the treasure vase, the endless knot, the wheel of life and the pair of golden fishes. These symbols of good fortune represent the offerings that were made by the gods to Shakyamuni Buddha when he attained enlightenment. These intricate symbols surround a central glass panel displaying a petite clay figure of a seated Buddha in meditation.

Additional Dimensions:
Shrine: 4.25"W x 1.75"D x 5"H
Base of Mount: 3"W x 2.5"D See less