Indonesian Water Buffalo Horn Etched Betel Nut Lime Container

Description

This is a beautifully carved large Buffalo Horn Lime Container with deep incised designs from Timor in Indonesia. In Timor a Kalat is a container for lime powder. Hosts and guests share betel nut as a sign of hospitality and good will. 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. 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, abstract designs, animals, and plants portraying important aspects and sacred symbols of each culture and referring to the status of the owner. Lime takes away the bitter taste of the Betel nut and when chewed provides a mild intoxication. This is a lovely old Lime Container and would be a wonderful addition to your collection and home. This was collected in the field and shows age and use.
8" tall
6 1/2" around bottom
3 1/2" around top
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