Central Asia, India, Mughal Empire, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. Three lovely brass lidded betel boxes with curving sides and etched patterns. They sit on flat bases with short walls that rise up with many vertical gadrooned ribs to a small lip for the lid to fit over. The lid continues the gadrooning to the edge of a raised circular medallion. The smallest and larger box display embossed and etched floral and chevron patterns across the lid, medallion, and body. These lobed, dome shapes exhibit influences from Islamic architecture. A lovely ensemble of vessels that once held betel, a nut chewed for its mild narcotic effect. Size of largest: 4.75" in diameter x 3.75" H (12.1 cm x 9.5 cm); size of smallest: 3.5" in diameter x 2.5" H (8.9 cm x 6.4 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex- J. S. collection, Rhode Island, USA

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#157705

Surface weathering, scratches, and abrasions. Larger boxes have minor losses to rims of lid and box. Smallest box has indentations on the lid, and the base is slightly separating from body. Great patina, mineral deposits, and details.