Cambodian Silver Betel Box
Chased Silver Lion-Shaped Betel Box
Cambodia
circa 1920
length: 6.5cm, height: 5.5cm, depth: 4.5cm, weight: 33g
This fine, well-modelled silver betel box is unmistakably Cambodian, and dates to around 1920. Shaped as a plump, dog-like lion, it separates into a bottom and a top half. It was used to store elements of the betel nut quid, a mild social narcotic.
It is of chased and engraved silver. The facial features, hair and so on are all well delineated.
The box has obvious age but otherwise is in fine condition. Overall, it is a very fine piece.
References
Rooney, D., Betel Chewing Traditions in South-East Asia, Oxford University Press, 1993.Provenance:
private collection, UK
Inventory no.: 3450
SOLD
