TWO BHUTANESE LIME CONTAINERS

Ca. 18th - 19th century AD > A pair of Bhutanese lime containers with rounded bodies and domed covers, decorated with dense scrolling and foliate ornament. Small suspension loops project from the sides.Lime containers formed part of the equipment for chewing betel: a preparation of areca nut, betel leaf and slaked lime. Keeping the lime in a decorated portable container joined an everyday social habit with personal adornment and the display of metalworking skill. >>Size: 55-75mm x 45-50mm; Weight: 185g > Provenance: Private London Collection; Ex. Private European Collection. >>