Gahu Amulet Box, 19th century, 3 3/16 x 2 3/4 x 1 1/16 in. (8.1 x 6.99 x 2.7 cm) (closed), Gilt metal, gold, turquoise, lapis, mother-of-pearl and other gemstones, Tibet, 19th century, Charm, or amulet, cases often contained sacred prayers, objects blessed by a lama (teacher), or even fragments of a monks robe. They were commonly worn by women around the neck and by men attached to a belt or saddlebag. Here, the scrolling filigree work is inlaid with precious stones in the form of a Kirtimukha, or face of glory, meant to ward off evil spirits. The clasp takes the shape of a vajra, or thunderbolt, a symbol of enlightenment.