Antique buy Indonesian Carved Bamboo Lime Container for Betel Nut Chew, Bamboo Tribal Container

This is one of a collection in the shop, of antique Indonesian carved bamboo lime container. Possibly from the Timor region of Indonesia.
Betel is a mild stimulant chewed by about ten per cent of the world's population in an area stretching from East Africa across India, south-east Asia, Indonesia and the Philippines to New Guinea. The betel chew consists of the seed of the areca palm (the 'betel nut'), the fruit or leaf of the betel pepper vine, or mineral lime. The lime is kept in a container like this one, and taken to the mouth with an implement.
Depending on the region, the lime containers are made from gourds, bamboo, bone, carved wood and often have finely detailed exteriors and stoppers. In Indonesia and Asia in general, shapes and materials used for the receptacles that will contain lime powder or betel differ from country to country. The receptacles, boxes and carry-cases for the lime powder are generally superbly carved with a great variety of human figures, animals, plants portraying important aspects and sacred symbols of each culture and referring to the status of the owner. Lime takes away the bitter taste of the Betel nut and when chewed provides a mild intoxication.

Good condition with a patina appropriate to age and use. Still shows some residue inside. This piece has no stopper.
Offered in found condition, see all photos for full description. Unmarked
Objects are buy stored in a clean, non-smoking space.

Measures 8" x 2" diameter
Acquired in Lombard, IL

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