Oval Bamboo Woven Box
These remarkably refined little boxes were likely used by ethnic minorities to store betel (areca) nuts, a seed commonly consumed by members of tropical and subtropical ethnic communities. The betel nut is traditionally believed to aid digestion, reduce edema, clear phlegm and congestion, and expel parasites. Moreover, its active compounds—arecoline and arecaidine—are known for their stimulating and warming effects. As a result, some communities presented them as gifts on special occasions. The IHP collection includes many such beautifully crafted boxes.
- Item No.
- E00805
- Notes
- Acquired by Ruey Yih-fu and Yong Shi-heng (1934 or 1935) from Yunnan
Dai ethnic group
