Worn around the neck or over the shoulder on a strap, the Tibetan Buddhist Gau serves as a portable shrine box while traveling. It is a receptacle for sacred objects and substances such as prayer texts, small Buddha images, and religious relics. While at rest it is placed upon an altar.

The face and sides of this Gau are crafted of silver, and the body is copper. The imagery on the cover depicts the Eight Astamangalas or Eight Auspicious Symbols. Tibetan numerals are included in its intricate design. Enclosed within the box are 2 folded prayer cloths.