Early Indian Bronze Betel Paan Box With Hanuman & Figural Relief Decoration, 18th Century

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A remarkable antique Indian bronze betel or paan box, of rectangular form with hinged lid and substantial hand-worked metal hasp. … Read more A remarkable antique Indian bronze betel or paan box, of rectangular form with hinged lid and substantial hand-worked metal hasp. The exterior is richly decorated in low relief with Hindu figural and foliate imagery, including a prominent representation of Hanuman, recognizable by his simian features and traditional iconography.

The surrounding panels incorporate additional figures, scrolling vegetation, floral ornament and geometric borders, creating a densely decorated surface characteristic of traditional Indian metalwork. The bronze displays a deep, naturally aged brown patina with areas of green verdigris and mineral oxidation, particularly evident to the interior and recessed decoration.

The box appears to have seen considerable use and retains irregularities, wear, oxidation and surface accretions consistent with substantial age. See less