Cleveland Museum of Art

Betel nut container

Date

1800s

Medium

Cast brass with silver inlays, weave fabric (handle), glass beads

Culture

Philippines, Mindanao, most likely Maranao

Department

Oceania

Institution

Cleveland Museum of Art

Chewing betel has been a social ritual common throughout Southeast Asia and Oceania for centuries. This betel nut container held the ingredients (areca nut, slaked lime, and betel leaves) used for this practice. The rectangular box, made of cast brass, is richly decorated with inlaid silver geometric motifs. It features a multicolored beaded strap with a pattern typical of the Bagobo people. The beaded strap suggests portability; it may have been worn or suspended during social gatherings.

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