This red lacquer tray is one tier of an early 20th century Burmese stacking betel box (kun-it). A blend of betel leaves, areca nuts, slaked lime, and sometimes tobacco, betel quid (paan) is a common medicinal chew throughout southeast Asia and was often kept in finely decorated boxes, either for personal use or to share with others as a social custom.

The lacquered tray is decorated in the manner of 'yun ware' engraving, hand-etched with dots and linework borders and finished with gold pigments. The underside is further embellished in black lacquer with paintings of cloud scrollwork and mythical creatures.

The art of lacquer of Myanmar (Burma) is known as 'pan yun' and traditionally begins with a basic form of woven bamboo or carved wood. Layers of sawdust and lacquer resin (thit-si) gradually build up a smooth, polished surface and the addition of cinnabar achieves a rich, red color, a form of lacquer known as hinthabada.

Additional Dimensions:
Interior: 8"Dia x 2"H

Minor chips to lacquer.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good condition, wear consistent with age and use. Minor chips to lacquer.

Origin:
Myanmar

Materials & Techniques:
Bamboo, Lacquer

Details:
Country of Origin: Myanmar
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Good condition, wear consistent with age and use. Minor chips to lacquer.