Ahin Posh: Amulet Case

PAKISTAN, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Orakzai

This gold amulet case is a work of Gandharan art. Two gold coins and Buddhist relics were found encapsulated within. Of the coins, one is the Coin of Kaniska, which features an image of King Kaniska (reigned circa 129–160) on one side and the Buddha on the reverse.
Octagonal in form and hollow inside, the amulet case was hammered and bent into shape from a single sheet of gold. One end is detachable for the insertion of relics or other revered objects; the rims around both ends are decorated with a beaded pattern. Each of the eight sides, as well as the end caps, have oval and multifoil shapes cut into them. Garnet gemstones were inlaid within the ovals, however some are now missing. There is a gold ball at either end with holes to string a cord through.