Indian Octagonal Brass Betel Nut Box - Circa 1920 Dowry Chest This is one of a

This is one of a set purchased and dates to the beginning of the Shōwa era

The brass fittings are original and this chest can be particularly prized for its one piece top

flared sides

It can be drunk both sweet (meethi lassi) and salty (namkeen lassi) and is most often flavoured with mango or herbs and spices like fennel

The front of this chest is framed by delicately crafted iron bindings which are indicative of 17th & 18th century Tibetan chests

Indian Octagonal Brass Betel Nut Box - Circa 1920 Dowry Chest This is one of aThis beautiful Indian brass box was used for storage of betel nut & paan leaves in old Northern India circa 1920's. Paan is a preparation, which combines a paste of spices in a betel leaf, which is chewed for its stimulant and psychoactive effects. After chewing it is either spat out or swallowed. Paan has many variations. Slaked lime (chunam) paste is commonly added to bind the leaves. The skilled Paan maker is known as a paanwala in North India.