Description:

Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Bali / Java, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A betel nut crusher featuring an iron rod with spatula-like blade, and handle intricately carved from cow or buffalo horn. Handle depicts two anthropomorphic figures, one riding "piggyback" on the shoulder of the other. These tools were traditionally used to pound betel nuts (areca nut) and lime for chewing, providing a stimulant effect. Chewing betel nuts causes tooth decay; thus, older individuals missing teeth use mortars to mash the nut. Red-stained mouths and missing teeth have become symbols of elder wisdom, and the utensils used for preparing betel mixtures are valued and often ornately crafted.

Provenance: ex-San Francisco, California, USA collection

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#188842

  • Condition: Intact and choice with iron bladed section with deep patina.

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September 29, 2024 10:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000