17th Century Painted Kirtimukha Tibetan Antique Storage Box Furniture from Central Tibet

This is a rare early leather cabinet. It is entirely made of thick yak leather without any wooden or iron frame. with only iron nails used to reinforce the edges. The lid of the cabinet is designed with a decorative wavy pattern along the edges. The surface is in a deep coffee color. with intricate golden patterns outlined on its front. top. and sides. The decorative patterns primarily consist of intertwined floral motifs with graceful branches. In the center. there is a motif known as Kirtimukha. the Face of Glory. also a protective totem in Tibetan Buddhism believed to ward off evil and bless with peace. On both sides are pearl motifs. and at its top are auspicious cloud patterns. The Triratna. representing the Buddha. Dharma and Sangha. is the central offering on a Buddhist altar. symbolizing the body. speech and mind of all Buddhas.