Tibetan gau are small, portable shrines, containing holy items such as amulets, miniature statues, mantras or sacred incantations inscribed onto small bits of paper, scraps of fabric and anything else with a sacred connection. It is said the tradition of gau date back to the 7th century, when Buddhism was introduced to Tibet. Tibetan soldiers often wore them for protection in battle, and both monks and laypeople also used them for spiritual protection and healing. They are also spectacular miniature works of art, made of metal, wood, bone, or stone, and decorated with intricate designs. More beautiful examples and information here:

Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art
Bowers Museum
Enlightenment Thangka

It’s not a surprise I find these little shrines so captivating—as a child, I was fascinated by my dad’s collection of Thai Buddhist amulets. He had maybe seven different ones that were strung on a heavy silver chain, that he wore around his neck every day for protection. Some of the amulets were pressed bronze, some were carved stone figures encased in glass. Hopefully I’ll sneak some photos next time I visit… Or, if you’re in Bangkok, you can always visit the famous Amulet Market and see them yourself!