Large signed Lacquer Betel Box, Burma
(Myanmar) late 19th century

height: 8 1/2" (22 cm) diameter: 9" (23 cm)






This late 19th century Burmese betel box is finely lacquered and incised with orange, green, red, black, and yellow lacquer. It is richly decorated with courtly scenes and bands of parrots and flowers. The box still retains two original internal trays. These two are finished with incised designs as is the exterior of the sides of the base, which are hidden when the box is assembled. There are several panels of old-style Burmese script, including the maker’s name, which translates to “Master Thaung Htike” and the place of manufacture, “Bahan, Myoma Myantan Ward.” The condition is very fine; there are relatively few chips or losses to the lacquer work.