19th Century Silver Betel Leaf Holder Mughal India Indian Set of Five Lot Paan Antique Vintage

Details

Description

A rare fine and impressive set of five antique silver Paan or betel leaf holders.

Each of these holders has … Read more A rare fine and impressive set of five antique silver Paan or betel leaf holders.

Each of these holders has a tapering paneled fan shaped form. The two side panels angled on each side are embellished with impressive embossed and chased decoration depicting flora and various bird designs amidst geometric ornamented borders.

The central panel is ornamented with a subdivided three horizontal panel design with rich floral and foliate array. The posterior surface is embellished with further embossed and chased decoration depicting impressive undulating fruiting vine ornamentation with perched parrots and birds. The lower portion of each vertical section bears an embossed four-petal flower on a chased matte background.

The undersides are left open that enables air circulation and keeps the betel leaves fresh longer.

Serving Paan or betel leaf was considered (and is still) a symbol of hospitality in The Mughal and Indian culture. Presenting them in decorated silver holders is considered very special.

Weight: 219 g (total)
Dimensions: each Height 3 7/8 inch. Width at top 2.5 inch. Depth 1.25 inch

Literature comparison: For related silver betel leaf holders see the British Museum, Museum number As1914,1012.17

Silver containers like the current ones were traditionally utilized for storing and serving Paan or betel leaf. The act of chewing a combination of betel-nut, lime paste, and spices wrapped in a betel leaf has been a practice in India and South and Southeast Asia for centuries.

Contemporary uses could be for napkins, name holders or for decoration along with other antique silver. See less