19th Century Thai Polychrome Lacquer Betel Box With Guardian Lion

Details

Description

A finely made 19th C Thai lacquer betel box of compact, circular form, measuring approximately 4" in diameter, constructed over … Read more A finely made 19th C Thai lacquer betel box of compact, circular form, measuring approximately 4" in diameter, constructed over a wood core and finished in richly layered, hand-applied lacquer. The lid features a stylized guardian lion (singha) within geometric framing, surrounded by scrolling ornament rendered in subtle relief. The decoration extends beyond the lid and side band: the base shows carved and tooled detailing with a centered mythic phoenix-like bird motif (often associated with hongsa or sacred bird imagery in Thai decorative traditions). The surface displays a nuanced palette of burgundy and orange-red lacquer with accents of yellow, green, and lighter red, creating depth and variation. Intended for personal handling and daily use in the preparation and storage of betel nut, lime, and leaf, this is a quiet, grounded object with strong graphic presence, equally suited to a collector’s cabinet or a thoughtfully styled interior.

COLLECTOR’S NOTE
Thai lacquer betel boxes were daily-use objects; surviving examples often show heavy wear, losses, or later refinishing. Collectors look for three things: (1) honest age and patina without modern over-coating, (2) clarity of decorative program, and (3) workshop “finish”—evidence that the maker treated the object as complete from all angles.
This example is especially appealing on the 3rd point. The continuation of decoration onto the base and the finished underside motif suggest a more labor-forward production standard than the many boxes decorated only on the lid and side band. The polychrome palette and dense linework also indicate more time-intensive work; greater color range and detail typically required additional steps and careful hand control, raising production cost in period workshops.

#00490JWHcpk7 See less