NHB officers will NEVER ask you to transfer money or disclose bank log-in details over a phone call. Call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 if you are unsure if something is a scam. For more information on how to protect yourself against scams, please visit www.scamshield.gov.sg.

Brooch with turquoise Garuda

Title

Year/Period

19th century

Region

Tibet

Object Type

brooches

Material

Silver, turquoise, rubies and coral

Technique

inlay

Dimension

Object size: 11.0 x 7.0 x 2.5 cm

Accession No.

2018-00713

Collection of

Asian Civilisations Museum

This style of brooch was worn by important Tibetan dignitaries. At the top is the face of Garuda, the half bird half human mount of the Hindu god Vishnu. He is a guardian deity in Tibet and Nepal. Here he presides over a cosmic disc. Turquoise was valuable and used extensively in jewellery from this region. The eyes are made from two rubies. This luxurious artefact is crafted with the highest level of workmanship.