This complete set of eight items is linked to the millennial tradition of Indonesian and Asian peoples in general chewing a mixture of betel leaves and areca nuts. This meticulously crafted and superbly handcrafted brass and beautifully engraved traditional Buddhist "bungee" pattern consists of a large portion whose detachable lid doubles as a tray for two round lidded containers to store areca nuts, spices, tobacco, two smaller containers without a lid, one incense stand and a vase-shaped container, which were offered to guests during the ceremony of eating betel. The base, with a lid, would hold the betel leaves and keep them moist, and is meant to be used as a spittoon for the used leaves. Betel sets were symbols of status and wealth and were central to most social and ceremonial occasions such as weddings and were passed down from generation to generation. Apparently, this is why these sets are rather rare finds for Europe.
The condition of the items, despite their significant age, is good, without dents, sideboard storage. The items are patinated and we did not clean them, giving the buyer the choice of polishing them to a shine or leaving them unchanged.
However, there is a small hole on the vase-shaped container (see photo 10).
Approximate dimensions:
Large container with lid:
Height 26 cm 10.2 inches
Largest point diameter 22 cm 8.7 inches
Two round containers with a lid:
Height 6.5 cm 2.4 inches
Diameter 7.2 cm 2.7 inches
Round containers without lid
Height 5.5 cm 2 inches
Diameter 6 cm 2.4 inches
vase container
Height 8.5 cm 3.3 inches
Width 8.5 cm 3.3 inches
Depth 6 cm 2.4 inches
hollow container
Height 4.5 cm 1.6 inches
Diameter 4.5 cm 1.6 inches
Weight before packing 2,1 kg