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Leaf-Shaped Box

17th–19th century
Not on view
This box made for an elite patron presents the god Vishnu, in carved aquamarine, in a field of emeralds. The lid was made in a Nepalese workshop, while the gold box was manufactured in Tibet. The object speaks for a seamless integration of Hindu deities with the Tibetan pantheon.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Leaf-Shaped Box
  • Date: 17th–19th century
  • Culture: Top decoration: Newari; box: Tibet, Lhasa area
  • Medium: Gold, aquamarine, diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphire, pearl, lapis lazuli, and turquoise
  • Dimensions: 6 x 2 1/2 in. (15.2 x 6.3 cm)
  • Classification: Metalwork
  • Credit Line: John Stewart Kennedy Fund, 1915
  • Object Number: 15.95.167
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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