Product Description

Antique Burmese Betel Cutter 4

Material: Iron
Style: Burma
Size: Height 4 cm (closed), Length 17.5 cm
Order Number: MHSABBCU4

The areca nut is one of the ingredients of the betel quid. The basic ingredients are betel leaf, areca nut and lime powder. Gambir and tobacco may be added  to make it more fragrant. The hard nut is sliced into small pieces with a hinged cutter (caket). It is used like a small guillotine or a single bladed pair of scissors – with a vertical movement. There are 2 arms, one with an iron blade, and the other with a flat surface against which the blade falls. The rest may be brass or another kind of metal.

They were prestige implements, like the rest of the betel set, and commissioned by aristocrats and rich merchants. There are a multiplicity of designs.  Brass and iron require different techniques and craftsmen. Being small, they travelled all over the region. Most are very elegant.

Early 20th century.

Please ask for the price (or make an offer).