Antique Cambodian Hanuman Silver Betel Lime Box, Early 20th Century

A fine antique Cambodian silver betel lime box of lobed form, the lid surmounted by a finely cast and chased figure of Hanuman, the monkey warrior from the Ramayana and the Khmer Reamker tradition.

The figure is depicted seated in a dynamic posture, richly adorned with jewellery and costume, his body merging gracefully with the contours of the box. The sides are decorated with geometric and scale-like motifs typical of Khmer silverwork. The interior is plain and retains traces of age and use consistent with its original function as a container for lime used in betel chewing.

Betel chewing formed an important part of daily and ceremonial life throughout Cambodia, and finely worked silver containers such as this were owned by families of status and used on special occasions as well as in everyday hospitality.

A charming example of Khmer silverwork combining practical function with religious and literary symbolism.

Cambodia, early 20th century.

Dimensions: width 7 cm


Good condition with age-related wear and patina.

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