This Malay tobacco box or chelpa, would have been used to store betel nut. When opened, it is clear that the chelpa has been crafted using repousse techniques.
On the back of the chelpa lies the hinge. Below the hinge, there is a small loop affixed to the body, and through the small loop, there is a large ring which connects the chain through which is used to attach to clothing. This way, one could easily travel with their betel nuts without having to carry them around in their hands or pockets.
Betel chewing became widespread across South East Asia and there was a great deal of paraphernalia attached to the habit with containers of various sizes and shapes and special tools to cut the betel nuts. The containers were made of different materials, wood, lacquer and various metals, according to income and social standing.
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On the back of the chelpa lies the hinge. Below the hinge, there is a small loop affixed to the body, and through the small loop, there is a large ring which connects the chain through which is used to attach to clothing. This way, one could easily travel with their betel nuts without having to carry them around in their hands or pockets.
Betel chewing became widespread across South East Asia and there was a great deal of paraphernalia attached to the habit with containers of various sizes and shapes and special tools to cut the betel nuts. The containers were made of different materials, wood, lacquer and various metals, according to income and social standing.
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 3
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