Indonesian Timor Hand Etched Bamboo Lime Container

Description

This is an Old carved Bamboo Lime Container from the Timor region of Indonesia. Betel is a mild stimulant chewed by about ten per cent of the world's population in an area stretching from East Africa across India, south-east Asia, Indonesia and the Philippines to New Guinea. The betel chew consists of the seed of the areca palm (the 'betel nut'), the fruit or leaf of the betel pepper vine, and mineral lime. The lime is kept in a container and taken to the mouth with an implement.
Depending on the region, the lime containers are made from gourds, bamboo, bone, carved
wood and often have finely detailed stoppers. In Indonesia and Asia in general, shapes and materials used for the receptacles that will contain lime powder or betel differ from country to country. The receptacles, boxes and carry-cases for the lime powder are generally superbly carved with a great variety of human figures, animals, plants portraying important aspects  and sacred symbols of each culture and referring to the status of the owner. The container is cleverly constructed in two parts using the joints in the bamboo. Lime takes away the bitter taste of the Betel Nut and when chewed provides a mild intoxication. This is a wonderful decorative item to add to your collection. Still shows some residue.
7" tall x 4  1/4" around
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