Lacquer Betel Box

Description Pagan, Burma Bamboo and Lacquer This vermillion lacquer container is decorated with fine incised designs (yün). The lid presents a “king-at-court” or nan-dwin scene, a Konbaung-period narrative motif showing the monarch enthroned at the centre of a palace courtyard, attended by two courtiers and framed by tiered roofs, curtained doorways, and spires. A small feline motif appears below the main register. The sides continue the palace setting in a continuous frieze that includes attendants, a caparisoned elephant, and decorative floral and architectural panels. In Burmese tradition, the nan-dwin motifs symbolise the restoration of order and prosperity. The bottom of both the box and the tray carries stylised floral roundels. The hatbox-style lid fits snugly over the container and features one interior tray. Tamil painted initials were later added by Chettiar owners for identification within large joint-family households; here, the inscription reads close to pa-la chu–mu, functioning like an English set of initials such as P.L.C. While Yun-de, or lacquerware in Burmese, is considered a minor art in most countries, in Burma, it has been a dominant industry for the last three centuries. Burma acquired lacquer production techniques from China, where lacquer has been used for over 3,000 years. Burmese royals often presented lacquerware as gifts to foreign envoys, and food at their banquets was served on lacquerware. Lacquerware was also popular among commoners for storing food, refreshments, clothing, cosmetics, and even flowers. Burmese lacquerware has deep connections with India through the Nattukottai Chettiars, a community of rich South Indian traders from Tamil Nadu who settled in Burma and other Southeast Asian countries. However, towards the end of British colonial rule, they began to leave Burma for India. As they left, they took with them parts of Burma – the lacquerware. Today, one can find lacquerware boxes, plates and trays in many Chettiar households, handed down generation after generation through the female line. Size (cms): 10(H) x 18(Diam) Size (inches): 4(H) x 7(Diam)