Wooden box engraved with geometric motifs and topped with a stopper representing an ancestral figure. This type of box was originally used to store the lime necessary for the preparation of betel.
Betel quid is a practice that dates back thousands of years and is widespread throughout the world, particularly in South East Asia. Consumed for its stimulating and curative properties, betel consists of three main elements: the betel leaf, the areca nut and the lime from powdered shells. Chewing these three elements causes the saliva to turn red and the teeth to turn orange. Betel chewing is practiced by both men and women as a sign of maturity.
Betel is also the main offering for the ancestors during ceremonies or prayers. The material needed to prepare betel quid is kept in decorated wooden boxes, which are like works of art and are usually carried in a fibre shoulder bag called a Kaleku.
Origin Timor
Material: exotic wood
Dimensions: H16 x W 3cm
Additional information: one of a kind - similar items available upon request