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A small Dutch colonial Indonesian tortoiseshell betel box with gold mounts

$29,536.31
£22,139.30
€25,000
CA$40,577.88
A$45,301.38
CHF 23,737.24
MX$554,533.38
NOK 301,463.22
SEK 284,241.54
DKK 190,309.12
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About the Item

Jakarta (Batavia), 18th century, apparently unmarked L. 14 x W. 9.5 x H. 4.7 cm Before settling down to business in the former Dutch East Indies, sirih had to be offered in the most exquisite boxes of gold, silver, inlaid with precious stones, ivory, or tortoiseshell. The costliness of one’s sirih box displayed one’s fortunes. Sirih or Betel boxes with gold mounts are rare because the gold was often melted down in times of dire need.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 1.86 in (4.7 cm)Width: 3.75 in (9.5 cm)Depth: 5.52 in (14 cm)
  • Style:
    Dutch Colonial (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Late 18th century
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Amsterdam, NL
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5458239038692

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