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Coral Gau This lovely, old charm box (gau) was worn by a devout Buddhist in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan and once contained religious images, prayers or other sacred objects. It acted as a portable shrine and insured protection for the arduous journey undertaken. The Bhutanese or Drukpa people share many affinities with their Tibetan neighbors. The use of silver, brass and copper in one piece reflects this, as do the coral insets and silver repoussed designs of auspicious Buddhist symbols among abstract foliate patterns. The round opening in the center would allow the devotee to see the sacred image that was kept inside. This handsome piece dates to the 19th C. and is in good condition. The brass loops that a strap passed through has been misshapen from use as well as the copper bottom that slides into the embellished front. Age has added a richness that attests to a long life of service. This beautiful gau measures 3.5 in. across and 1.25 in. deep. It is truly a treasure and quite collectible. SOLD 
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