Product Description

Antique Thai Betel Cutter              

Material: Iron
Style: Thailand
Size: Height 4.5 cm (closed), Length 17 cm
Order Number: MHSATBC1

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.

In Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia cutters are made of iron, which may be decorated with other metals.

Early – mid 20th century.

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