Bidspirit auction | A LARGE TIBETAN GAU, 19TH

A LARGE TIBETAN GAU, 19TH CEN. - A large antique Tibetan Buddha shrine or prayer box (also known as Gau), that encases a painted terra cotta Buddha figure, all wrapped in a hand-embroidered quilted silk brocade. This was used as a traveling shrine and carried on one's person when away from home. Beginning with the “om” written on the left-hand side of this traveling shrine, an itinerant Tibetan monk once traced his fingers clockwise over the embossed characters. As he did this, he recited ”om ma ni padh mey hum, ” the universal Tibetan Buddhist prayer for the well-being of all sentient beings. Known as a Gau, this portable shrine was used for prayer during travels or pilgrimages to hold sacred objects that offered protective powers. Gau is further empowered by an image of a fearsome guardian figure and a representation of the victory banner, an ancient Indian symbol that celebrates enlightenment. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All lots are sold ”as-is”, refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions offers in-house shipping. In case we can not accommodate a shipping request, a list of additional shippers will be provided. Dimensions: 15 x 13 3/4 x 5 in., (38.1 x 34.9 x 12.7 cm.) Condition: Good condition overall. Fabric with stains and small damaged spots on interior. Exterior looks fine. Front of brass reliquary has a dent.