A SILVER TREASURE BOX WITH MONGOOSES AND ZODIAC SIGNSBURMA (MYANMAR), SHAN STATE, CIRCA 1910-20 5 7/8 in. (15 cm) diameter; 4 7/8 in. (12.5 cm) high; 7 7/8 in. (20 cm) long; 23 troy oz (713 grams) approximate weight A pair of large mongooses rubbing noses is depicted in high relief on top of this delightful silver treasure box's lid. The sides of the tall oval friction lid feature the twelve signs of the Burmese zodiac against floral patterning. Lifting the lid reveals a high-walled tray for luxury goods and valuables. Shan State Silversmiths Representing the largest ethnic minority in Myanmar, primarily living in the eastern Burmese Shan State, the Shan people are a Tai ethnic group whose ancestry is traced back to Yunnan and Sichuan provinces in modern-day Southwest China. Rather than narrative representations, silversmiths of the Shan State are better known for their design repertoire drawing from nature, mythical creatures, and astrology.