Southeast Asia, Burma (Myanmar), ca. late 19th to mid-20th century CE. A beautiful gilt and lacquered bamboo betel container of a cylindrical form, supported by 3 lions. The box is constructed from thin, woven slats of bamboo, with molded relief work across the surface, then lacquered in black and covered in gilt, a technique known as shwe zawa. The cylindrical lid fits over a tall interior lip on the lower base, resting flush against the gilt rim above the crouching animals. These 3 highly stylized lions are known as "chinthe," sacred guardians often portrayed in Burmese Buddhist tradition. This vessel was intended for holding betel leaves, nuts, or other ingredients for consuming betel, a substance chewed throughout southeastern Asia for its mild narcotic effect. Ornate containers such as this, may have been presented as special gifts to esteemed people, and this is a lovely and well-preserved example! Size: 4.5" W x 3.75" H (11.4 cm x 9.5 cm); gold quality: 37.2% to 55.9%
Provenance: ex-Coup de Foudre, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
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#170110
Condition
Flaking and losses to gilt, revealing the black lacquer underneath. Cracking to lacquer on the interior basin and underside of base with a small loss to lacquer coating near one lion panel. Overall great condition for display, lid slides on and off easily.