Archive Ref: GNMC-ART-035
150-Year-Old Micro-Engraved Octagonal Brass Travel Betel Casket (Paan Batua)
Rare 19th-century faceted octagonal travel betel casket with micro-incised eyelet stippling (L 6 in / 15 cm, Dia 2.5 in / 6 cm)
Authentic 150-year-old traditional micro-engraved brass portable paan (betel) and lime container (Tambula Chunauti / Paan Batua), forged in 19th-century Odisha. Historically carried by village elders and aristocrats during extended journeys, pilgrimages, and bullock cart travel to preserve fresh betel leaves (Paan), areca nut, and slaked edible lime (Chuna). Features a multi-faceted octagonal cylindrical casket measuring approx. 6 inches (15 cm) in length and 2.5 inches (6 cm) in diameter, adorned with dense concentric bullseye ('chashma') eyelet micro-engravings across every facet and granulated collar bands at each end. Equipped with hinged domed end-caps and suspension loop latches to securely fasten to a travel satchel or waist sash. A deeply charming, rare, and extinct historical travel accessory of Indian domestic culture.
Period
Late 19th Century (~150 years)
Dimensions
L: 6" / 15 cm × Dia: 2.5" / 6 cm
Provenance
Odisha traditional travel metrology & domestic hospitality metalcraft
Curator's Condition Assessment
Authentic 150-year aged olive-brass patina with natural verdigris highlighting the micro-engraved concentric circles. Hinged end-caps, latches, and structural body completely intact. Rare and extinct.
