![](https://www.horniman.ac.uk/media-collection/294/258/large_856__001_RS.jpg)
![](https://www.horniman.ac.uk/media-collection/294/261/large_856__002_RS.jpg)
![](https://www.horniman.ac.uk/media-collection/294/264/large_856__003_RS.jpg)
Copper alloy charm box (ga'u) or portable shrine containing a gilded cast metal Buddhist figure, behind glass. The exterior front panel of the box, possibly made from silver, is decorated with the eight auspicious Buddhist symbols in semi-relief.
Large g’au such as this example could have been worn whilst travelling. Travelling was a time when people were particularly vulnerable and often several g’au were carried to provide extra protection. When travelling this g’au would probably have been worn on a sash, slung from shoulder to waist. However it’s flat bottom also allows for it to be placed on a shelf as part of a shrine.