A LARGE ´GHAU´ PRAYER BOX WITH A TSA-TSA Lot n° 29

A LARGE ´GHAU´ PRAYER BOX WITH A TSA-TSA Tibet, 19th century. The circular brass box is engraved and embossed in high relief around the central opening with auspicious Buddhist symbols and scrolling foliage, the sides with two handles for suspension, showcasing a beaded rim and further incised foliage. Through the opening, behind the glass, the large colored ceramic tsa-tsa is visible and the inside is filled with Buddhist flags. Together with a brocade cover and carrying belt. Condition: Good condition with expected wear and minor nicks here and there. Provenance: The collection of The Zelnik István Southeast Asian Gold Museum. Institutional art collection in Belgium, acquired from the above. Dr. István Zelnik, President of the Hungarian South and Southeast Asian Research Institute, is a former high-ranking Hungarian diplomat who spent several decades in Southeast Asia, building the largest known private collection of Asian art in Europe. Weight: 1693 g Dimensions: 24.5 cm