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Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Java, ca. 19th century CE. A wonderful pair of betel nut cutters, each cast from iron with silver inlays, in the shape of a mythical dragon creature. Both are comprised of 2 iron pieces hinged at the head – the upper is the blade and the lower stabilizes the nut- and two handles taper outwards. These unusual tools were used for cutting open the betel nut (areca nut). Chewing on this nut is addictive, yielding similar effects to chewing tobacco, and this practice was immensely popular from the 17th century to 19th century in India, Southeast Asia, and Eastern Africa. Fancy nut crackers were elegant status symbols but at the same time symbolized tooth loss and gum decay from long term betel use – these tools became necessary for those who could no longer chew the nut on their own! Size (both about the same): 7.7″ L x 3.1″ W (19.6 cm x 7.9 cm)
Condition: One has chipping to blade, and both have light bending, nicks, and abrasions to surface. Heavy patina and wear from age, use, exposure to elements. Liberal remains of silver inlay. Hinge is attached and blade articulates.
Provenance: private Miami, Florida, USA collection; ex-Artemis Gallery; ex-private Hawaii collection, acquired 2000 to 2010
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