Large Round Black and Red Lacquer Asian Betel Box

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This antique, South Asian round Betel Box features a scrolling, floral embossed black lacquer pattern outside and bright red lacquer … Read more This antique, South Asian round Betel Box features a scrolling, floral embossed black lacquer pattern outside and bright red lacquer inside, with a woven, cross-hatch layer that is repeated on the outside of the base and inside. Turned over, the lid becomes a tray that sits firmly inside the rim. When shut, the lid balances on the rim of the bowl. The precise origin of this box is unknown, but it has a likeness to those from Burma and Chang Mai.

Betel boxes are containers used in many South Asian cultures to hold the ingredients for making betel quid, which is chewed for a stimulating effect, and is composed of areca nuts, betel leaves, and lime. Betel was traditionally offered to guests as a gesture of hospitality. It was also used in spiritual ceremonies. The craftsmanship of a box often signaled wealth and social status. See less