Antique silver betel box from Bhutan

This ornately decorated, heavy box made of partly gold-plated silver (with other metal parts) comes from Bhutan and was used to store betel and the lime used to make it. It consists of two parts: The top is richly chased with filigree floral motifs, while the underside is engraved with the eight-spoked wheel of life. There is an eyelet on the top and a ring on the bottom to attach the box to the belt.

The box probably dates from the 19th century and has a beautiful patina. The lime on the inside has not been removed in order to preserve its authentic character.

Provenance: Swiss private collection; the box was acquired in Bhutan, Punakha.

Dimensions:

• Diameter: 7.8 cm
• Height: 4.6 cm
• Weight: 198.5 g

In Bhutan, chewing betel nuts, also known as areca nuts, is a deeply rooted tradition. The nuts are processed together with lime and betel pepper leaves to make a mixture called "Doma", which is consumed on both social and religious occasions. The lime, obtained from shell limestone or burnt limestone, enhances the effect of the betel nut.