Chewing betel was popular in Cambodia in the 19th century. This was particularly the case in the upper echelons of society within the capital, Phnom Penh. As a result, the silversmiths of Phnom Penh specialised in producing attractive lidded boxes made of silver to store the utensils used in betel chewing, such as betel leaves, areca nuts, lime and other ingredients. Silver boxes in the shape of animals, mythological beings, fruits etc. were the most popular – like the two present boxes made of high-quality silver.

1: The larger box depicts a lavishly decorated elephant with a raised trunk. The bowl and lid are made of repoussé silver. The elephant’s silver tusks are solid, inlaid and soldered on.
Dimensions: 17 cm x 21 cm x 10.5 cm.

2: The smaller box depicts a mythological ‘chinthe’ guardian lion (for a more detailed explanation cf. cat. no. 300). With the body and head of a lion, a raised elephant’s trunk and wings sketched on at the sides. The silversmith’s mark is engraved onto the underneath of the piece.
Dimensions: 10.5 cm x 10.5 cm x 5 cm.
Two very beautiful, charming objects, without damage. Both objects: between the 19th and the early 20th centuries. (ME)