ANTIQUE Philippine Mindanao Betel Nut Boxes Silver-Inlay Islamic Design 2 PCS

Description

Lot of 2—19th Century Betel Nut Boxes.
Adorned with the characteristic foliar and floral motifs favored by the Islamic peoples of the southern Philippines and adjacent parts of insular Southeast Asia, these are a striking and classic early examples of Maranao betel nut boxes. With hinged top and side handles, they are fitted with four compartments for the arecra nut, fresh pepper or betel leaves, lime powder, and damp tobacco leaves.
These are beautifully crafted by Mindanao Philippine artisans known for centuries to work with brass & bronze! They are inlaid with silver & are striking!
While smaller receptacles were used to transport the components of the betel chew, weighty metal boxes like these boxes were kept for ceremonial use and as objects of status.
These boxes were known to be used by the wealthy Maranao families in Mindanao, Philippines who could afford the elaborately embellished boxes with silver-inlay. Those wealthy Maranao families would bring out these beautiful boxes and offer betel nut to their visitors, as a form of hospitality, as well as to show off.
Larger Box measures: 8-1/8” Long (including handles) x 3-3/4” Wide x 3-3/4” Tall.
Smaller Box measures: 7-1/4” Long (including handles) x. 3-1/4” Wide x 3-1/4” Tall.
THESE ARE USED OF COURSE BUT IN MUCH FINER SHAPE THAN MOST YOU CAN FIND!!