Skip to Main Content

Open today: 10am-5pm

19th century

Jar with Lid

Artist/maker unknown

This gilded silver jar is part of the paraphernalia used for betel chewing. The generic term “betel nut” is technically a misnomer. What betel chewers put in their mouths is primarily areca nut, sometimes wrapped in betel leaf, with mineral lime usually added as a catalyst.

This record is part of an ongoing effort to share accurate and evolving information. If you notice anything we should improve, we welcome your feedback at [email protected]

Images on this site are shared for educational use. For image rights, permissions, or to learn more about image rights and access, email [email protected]