Betel nut container

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.