Southeast Asia, modern day Vietnam, Annamese (sometimes Anamese), ca. 16th century CE. A finely crafted stoneware lime container of a light cream hue accented at its top by a deep emerald green glaze and an ornate strap handle. The handle is beautifully ridged and exudes a vibrant zoomorphic presence. Appliqued design elements are emphasized where the handle joins the vessel’s spherical rotund body. Size: 4.75" in diameter x 5.75" H (12.1 cm x 14.6 cm)

This curiously shaped pot was used for betel chewing, a custom common throughout Southeast Asia - they would be passed around to guests, who each inserted a petite spoon or finger into the vessel to extract the amount of lime required. This was then smeared on a betel leaf, together with slices of areca nut and often extra flavorings such as clove and cardamom, folded into a wad, and chewed. The pot is modeled in the shape of an areca nut, the seed of the areca palm tree that grows in most tropical countries.

Provenance: ex-Ashland University Museum, Ashland, Ohio, USA

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#165512

Surface wear commensurate with use and age. Minor encrustation to peripheries of opening. Light chipping to appliqued decoration on handle. Light earthen deposits in recessed areas. Otherwise, in excellent condition. Nice craquelure over the entire surface.