Rare ANTIQUE SOUTHEAST ASIA Philippine Crescent-shaped Brass Betel Box (Museum)

Rare Brass Crescent-Shaped Betel Nut BoxAntique Philippine

Material CultureBrass box, crescent shape, hinged on one side, with a loop at each end, and 3 compartment interior, the end compartments lidded. The brass is hand hammered with a swirling leafy pattern on upper lid. Although the two end compartments are hinged for lids, only one is present.Height: 1- 1/2 inLength: 6 inDepth: 1- 1/2 inAlthough there are two near identical boxes listed on eBay as "Kabuki actor makeup boxes," there is another similar one (see last pic) in Harvard's Peabody Museum listed as:Fellows of Harvard College, Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology Listing:Description: Brass box, crescent shape, hinge on one side, loop at end, 2 lidded interior compartmentsIdentifier: 33-104-70/278, Mapping Philippine

Material CultureOrigin: Oceania, Philippines, Moro, MindanaoMaterials: BrassPhysical Dimensions: Overall: 6.2 x 24 x 12.1 cm (2 7/16 x 9 7/16 x 4 3/4 in.)Collection: Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, HarvardCite this Page: “Crescent-shaped brass betel box,” Mapping Philippine

Material Culture, accessed April 4, 2025,This product is a rare antique Betel box from Southeast Asia, specifically the Philippines. Made of brass in a unique crescent shape, this piece originates from the early 20th century to around 1940. Its historical significance and craftsmanship make it a valuable addition to any Southeast Asian antique collection.