Petite Red Lacquer Betel Box

c. 1900
$188 USD
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Dimensions
H: 1.5" Dia: 3.0"
Materials
Wood
Lacquer
Purchase Quantity
Collection #
CBH053C
Estimated Shipping
$20

In many southeast Asian cultures, offering guests a betel quid to chew was the fundamental symbol of hospitality. A blend of leaves, nuts, seasonings, and sometimes tobacco, betel was kept in finely worked and decorated boxes. This round betel box is painted with concentric circles of red, black, and yellow lacquer, delineated by finely etched lines that were likely once filled with gold pigment. The petite box is topped with a brass pull shaped like a flower and remains vibrant even after a century of use.

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Suzanne Lovell | Suzanne Lovell, Inc.

“I am particularly fond of PAGODA RED as we have known the family for so long. Betsy is a professional in every way and her intelligent taste comes from a long line of family knowledge in the arts. She and her team are the very best to work with and we find treasures with every visit!”

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