Vessel - Bronze - 1801-1885 - Killotaya
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Antique 19th‑century Sri Lankan bronze Killotaya lime container for betel chewing, dating to 1801–1885, 9 cm high, 6.5 cm wide, 3 cm deep, weight 308 g, in good used condition with a broken clasp arm on the lid and a rich patina.
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Description from the seller
Antique 19th-Century Sri Lankan Lime Container (Killotaya) for Betel Chewing
This 19th-century Sri Lankan lime container, known locally as a Killotaya, was traditionally used to store slaked lime (chunam), an essential component in the preparation of betel quid.
Made in bronze, the container features a rounded, compact form with hand-engraved decoration.
The lid is decorated with a floral rosette surrounded by geometric and linear motifs.
The interior chamber shows clear signs of historical use.
The container opens via a hinged mechanism at the top. One of the small clasp arms that helps secure the lid is broken off. However, the remaining clasp still holds the container firmly closed. .
The surface has developed a rich patina.
Cultural Significance:
In Sri Lankan culture, betel chewing was a widespread social and ceremonial practice. The betel quid consisted of betel leaf, areca nut, and slaked lime. Containers such as this Killotaya were carried to store lime safely and personally.
Height: 9 cm
Width: 6.5 cm
Depth: 3 cm
Net weight: 308 g.
Please take a good look at the photos, which are an integral part of the description.
This lot will be carefully packed so it will get to its new owner exactly as it should.
Antique 19th-Century Sri Lankan Lime Container (Killotaya) for Betel Chewing
This 19th-century Sri Lankan lime container, known locally as a Killotaya, was traditionally used to store slaked lime (chunam), an essential component in the preparation of betel quid.
Made in bronze, the container features a rounded, compact form with hand-engraved decoration.
The lid is decorated with a floral rosette surrounded by geometric and linear motifs.
The interior chamber shows clear signs of historical use.
The container opens via a hinged mechanism at the top. One of the small clasp arms that helps secure the lid is broken off. However, the remaining clasp still holds the container firmly closed. .
The surface has developed a rich patina.
Cultural Significance:
In Sri Lankan culture, betel chewing was a widespread social and ceremonial practice. The betel quid consisted of betel leaf, areca nut, and slaked lime. Containers such as this Killotaya were carried to store lime safely and personally.
Height: 9 cm
Width: 6.5 cm
Depth: 3 cm
Net weight: 308 g.
Please take a good look at the photos, which are an integral part of the description.
This lot will be carefully packed so it will get to its new owner exactly as it should.
Details
Era
1400-1900
Weight
308 g
Over 200 years old
Yes
Title additional information
Killotaya
Material
Bronze
Country of Origin
Sri Lanka
Height
9 cm
Width
6.5 cm
Depth
3 cm
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Estimated period
1801-1885
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