Antique .800 Silver Cambodian Decorative Gourd Style Lidded Betel Box 59.5g

This stunning early 20th Century Cambodian, decorative Betel box has been styled in the form of a gourd or pumpkin. The skill and exceptional workmanship is evident from the fine detail of the design. With finely chased flowers and scrolls in between each vertical band tapering down to the underside of the box. The top cover has a silver stem with a beautiful arrangement of stylised leaves. The interior of the betel box has traces of the betel nut liquid around the rim.

The beautiful betel box presents in excellent condition despite its age and usage. Stamped with .800 and a very faint makers stamp to the bottom of the box. The lid closes reasonably tightly and the box feels nice in the hand. Betel nut chewing is widespread across Asia and there is evidence of the practise dating back, some 4000 years or more ago. Betel nut, also known as paan, betel chew and betel pan, is a preparation of the betel nut with slacked lime, chewed in a leaf. The effects are euphoria, increased energy, faster brain reactions and heart rate, combined with higher body temperature to mention a few. Some of the negative effects include, over time, stained red teeth, mouth ulcers, gum disease, addiction with very heavy usage contributing to mouth cancers.

This delightful decorative box could have been used in ceremonies as the betel nut still plays an important role in everyday life for celebrating many traditions. As with anything in life, the key to enjoyment often lies in balance. This is a stunning example with a rich history and is a beautiful example to add to any collection.

Dimensions are as follows:

Length 7 cm x width 7 cmx height 4.8 cm
Weight 59.57 grams