Indonesian Betel Or Tobacco Box

Pictures below show an antique large Indonesian betel or tobacco box (made of thick gauge brass) from my collection, circa late 19th century or early 20th century. This rectangular betel box with blunt edges features the boxes appear to be based on similarity of 18th century Dutch tobacco boxes, though smaller form (As Indonesia was a Dutch colony before). The top cover lid is hinged and tiered, rising to a rectangular cartouche that is etched with a nice patterning (typical Malay scrolling vegetate and geometric designs) which shows influences from India and Malay trade. Together with it, is a chain handle for the user to easily carrying it around. It is heavy for its size, weighing 1kg. Inside the box is the compartment to store lime, betel nuts, tobacco and betel leaves, which are the ingredients for the betel chewing. Although the age of this betel box is readily apparent, it is still in a very good condition. Also, it is believed that great effort went into making this beautiful box to enhance the prestige of the occasion and reflect well on the owner. There are some residues of slaked lime inside the compartments. This betel box will make a beautiful addition to one's betel accessory collection. :)

Length : 25cm, Width : 13cm, Height : 10.5cm

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See also the "Silver Betel / Tobacco Box", the "Spittoons", the "Betel Nut Paraphernalia" and the "Asam Gelugor Fruit-Shaped Brass Container".