Amulet Box of a Noblewoman

Tibet

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 964

Amulet boxes (ga’u) like this one would have contained written or printed texts that monks consecrated to protect the wearer. This specific box was designed to be worn as a necklace, part of the elaborate jewelry of a noblewoman. The intricate goldwork and inlaid rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and turquoise refer to the crystalline nature of the heavens. The two overlaid squares symbolize crossed vajras.

Amulet Box of a Noblewoman, Gold, beryl, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and turquoise, Tibet

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Amulet Box of a Noblewoman, Gold, beryl, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and turquoise, Tibet
Amulet Box of a Noblewoman, Gold, beryl, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and turquoise, Tibet

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