Bhutanese Gold Silver Lime Container

Parcel-Gilded Silver Lime Container (Timi)

This is an exceptional example of a Bhutanese silver lime box. Of domed form, it comprises a base and a cover both of which fit together tightly.

The repousse and chasing work are very fine, but the particularly outstanding aspect of this box is the fine parcel gilding work. The outer edge of the lid, for example, is delicately bordered with multiple rows of tiny lotus petals and these have been selectively gilded. Overall, the goldwork presents a pleasing contrast with the silver.

The sides are chased and parcel gilded, and the base is elaborately chased with swirling leaf motifs.

See Myers and Bean (1994, p, 132) for an illustration of a Bhutanese lime box of similar form.

Such boxes were used to hold lime (usually obtained from imported crushed, burned seashells) which was a necessary part of the betel quid that was chewed as a mild narcotic.

The example here is in excellent condition.