Box (6) - Silver
Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Sarah Le Helley
Studied Asian art and art market management; researched art in Taipei; worked in auctions.
Estimate € 300 - € 380
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Description from the seller
A charming collection of six Cambodian Solid Silver zoomorphic betel boxes, all modelled in the form of elephants and presented in a variety of sizes and decorative styles, dating to the early 20th century.
These animal-shaped boxes belong to the Southeast Asian tradition of betel boxes, traditionally associated with the storage of betel nut and related ingredients. Elephant-form examples are particularly decorative and reflect the importance of the elephant in Southeast Asian culture.
Each piece has been individually worked with chased, engraved and repoussé-style decoration, featuring ornamental saddle cloths, floral and geometric motifs, textured skin, expressive facial details and raised decorative elements. The six pieces vary in size, form and workmanship, making this an attractive and highly decorative group when displayed together.
Condition
Overall in good antique condition, with age-related wear, tarnishing, oxidation, minor dents, surface marks and irregularities consistent with age and traditional handmade production. One of the small elephants has a repaired tusk. Some areas show natural patination and traces of oxidation to the interior. Please study all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.
Size:
Largest elephant: L 11.5cm × H 9cm × D 5.5 cm
Smallest elephant L 4.2cm × H 3.3cm × D 2.5 cm
Total weight: approximately 264 gram
A charming collection of six Cambodian Solid Silver zoomorphic betel boxes, all modelled in the form of elephants and presented in a variety of sizes and decorative styles, dating to the early 20th century.
These animal-shaped boxes belong to the Southeast Asian tradition of betel boxes, traditionally associated with the storage of betel nut and related ingredients. Elephant-form examples are particularly decorative and reflect the importance of the elephant in Southeast Asian culture.
Each piece has been individually worked with chased, engraved and repoussé-style decoration, featuring ornamental saddle cloths, floral and geometric motifs, textured skin, expressive facial details and raised decorative elements. The six pieces vary in size, form and workmanship, making this an attractive and highly decorative group when displayed together.
Condition
Overall in good antique condition, with age-related wear, tarnishing, oxidation, minor dents, surface marks and irregularities consistent with age and traditional handmade production. One of the small elephants has a repaired tusk. Some areas show natural patination and traces of oxidation to the interior. Please study all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.
Size:
Largest elephant: L 11.5cm × H 9cm × D 5.5 cm
Smallest elephant L 4.2cm × H 3.3cm × D 2.5 cm
Total weight: approximately 264 gram
Details
Era
1900-2000
Gross weight
264 g
Number of objects
6
Country of origin
Cambodia
Material
Silver
Condition
Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear
Height
9 cm
Width
11.5 cm
Depth
5.5 cm
Estimated period
1900-1910
