Antique silver betel box from Bhutan

This ornately decorated silver box from Bhutan was used to store betel. It consists of two parts: The top is richly chased with filigree floral motifs, while the bottom is engraved with the eight-spoked wheel of life. A ring could be passed through two opposite eyelets on the top and bottom to attach the box to the belt.

The piece probably dates from the 19th century and has a beautiful patina as well as signs of use and old repairs. The box was originally gilded - remnants of the gilding can still be seen in the deeper layers. It comes from a collection of Himalayan jewelry and antiques.

Dimensions:

• Diameter: 7 cm
• Height: 4 cm
• Weight: 87.6 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.