Asian Ceramics

Betel nut box, China

Oval betel nut box divided in two compartments. On the lid, en relief, a lion (symbol for strenght) that plays with a ball with ribbons (symbol for divinity). 

Provenance: Oude Haagse collectie, uit Indonesië

Betel nut contains arecoline and is mixed with quicklime, cloves and chewing tobacco (hence the compartments in the box. It stimulates the central nervous system and accelerates breathing. As a result, the user feels more energetic and alert, but also improves memory functions.