Bagobo Betel Boxes

Cast Brass Twin Betel Box with Silver Inlay

Bagobo People, Mindanao, Philippines

19th-early 20th century

length: 14.2cm, height: 8cm, weight: 610g

This twin pair of co-joined cast brass, lidded eight-sided boxes was used by the Islamic Bagobo people of Mindanao in the southern Philippines to store items associated with the consumption of betel nut.

The domed, hinged lids are inlaid with copper and silver triangles. The tops of the pull handle finials are inset with old mother-of-pearl buttons. The lids are also decorated with panels of scrollwork in relief. Similar panels are on each side of each box.

The boxes are further decorated with a brass chain to which seven bells are attached and a long metal personal cleaning implement.

According to Casal et al (1981, p. 155), ‘When entering the house of a datu [local chief] in Lanao and Cotabato, one’s first impression is of dozens or hundreds of brass and copper artifacts…Such objects are considered indicators of wealth and status, and they are always included among the gifts exchanged during weddings. The most impressive of these brass items is the gadur…’

The item is in fine condition. There are no obvious losses, no dents or repairs.

References

Casal, G. et al, The People and Art of the Philippines, UCLA Museum of Cultural History, 1981.

Provenance:

UK art market

Inventory no.: 3377

SOLD