This large ceremonial betel box has three parts - a stand, a cylindrical box and cover. The elaborate decoration comprises mainly of narrative scenes set within horizontal bands or ogival cartouches. These were produced by beating the silver from the reverse side, a technique known as repoussé. Finer details were then chased or engraved.Silver known as baw, was traditionally mined from the northern Shan states. However during the colonial period, coins were often melted down to make silver objects. The elaborate decorative style was often influenced by Victorian taste. Traditionally silverwares such as this were made as court gifts for officials. Pieces were also made for export and for display at trade exhibitions. This piece is a relatively subdued example. The stories usually illustrated on Burmese silverware include the Ramayana and Buddhist Jatakas.
