Mindanao Silver Inlaid Bronze Betal Nut Box

Mindanao silver inlaid bronze betal box, Islamic, Philippines, mid to late 19th century This highly decorative box is a betal nut box. The habit of chewing was relevant in the southern Philippines and much of Southeast Asia. Wealthy Maraneo families on the island of Mindanao were able to afford an elaborate silver inlaid bronze betal box such as this rare much larger than normal example. Such boxes were used to show off their wealth to household visitors where they would be offered betal nut and other components such as leaves and lime which were used to make up the betal quid or small package. This rare box is unusually raised onto bronze wheels because of its large size and weight. It would be rolled along a table or a flat surface. The main box comprises very elaborately inlaid silver panels on all surfaces, including the hinges. It has lifting handles at each end. When the lid is raised, it reveals a separate fitted inner box, also decorated with silver inlay on the lidded compartments, which would hold the ingredients. This box has been well used and shows residues from use in the two outer compartments which would have held the betel nut and lime. The silver for the decoration was produced locally by melting silver coins from the period. The decoration is Islamic in its design probably representing the stylised tail feathers of the Sari-Manok bird as well as foliage and orchid blooms.