Artifacts/Asia
Antique Ornate Silver Box from Bhutan
Rarely seen today, this handsome lidded box has softened edges and a rich patina from decades of use. Known as a “chakar” in the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, it was used to store and carry betel nut (doma) and betel leaves (paan). These ingredients with a bit of powdered lime were expertly wrapped into a small quid for chewing when relaxing with family and friends.
Handmade of high-content silver and embellished on all sides with engraved and repoussed auspicious Buddhist symbols, it would have been a prized possession of a well-to-do man.
The bottom features a clock-wise turning swastika, an ancient solar symbol of well-being and prosperity in many Asian cultures. Sometimes it also represents the element “earth” and its inherent stability. Measures 4 inches long x 2.5 inches wide x 1.25 inches high Late 19th C/early 20th C. Free domestic shipping in USA
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