Offering betel nut is deeply rooted in etiquette conveying respect and hospitality. Both formal and informal betel ceremonies mark occasions such as welcoming guests or initiating events, symbolizing goodwill and respect for adat, traditional tribal customs.
Chewing betel boosts energy by increasing oxygen uptake, numbs the gums, alleviates dental pain, and suppresses appetite. Its effects are heightened when mixed with the fruit or leaf of the sirih vine and lime powder, which turns the mixture from pale pink to bright orange.
The process involves chewing the mixture without swallowing it. The narcotic is absorbed through the mouth lining, while the residue is spat out. A nice accessories kit is a tribal fashion statement to be admired and envied.
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Lime container
Lit sushu wood
7.75" X 1.25"
54 grams
reference no: TK53
Deer Antler
6.75" X 1"
early 20th
61 grams
reference no: TKA61
7.5" X 1.25"
Mid to late 20th C
72 grams
reference no:TKB72
Tiba Basket
Highland Atoni People
Mollo Kingdom
West Timor
mid to late 20th C
Lontar, glass beads, trade cloth, slit weave textile fragment
3.25" X 2"
37 grams
REF#TIBA37
6.75" X 1.5"
late 20th C
57 grams
reference no: TKB56
TKB152
8" X 2.75"
152 grams
TKB152
Ceremonial Lime Container
Lucas Missa
Fenun Village - Amanatun District - West Timor
9.5" X 2.5" X 2" measurement at base
113 grams - REF#LM111
This ceremonial lime container is a masterwork.. The material is buffalo horn with motif "kaif" - symbol of kinship and power in deep relief. The bottom has been sealed with a rosewood plug.
TKD46
Deer Antler
4.75" X 1"
mid 20th C
Bone stoppers have carved attachment points for the glass bead straps that are a combination of ancient Venetian and contemporary glass beads,
TK60
Deer Antler
5" X 7/8"
Mid to late 20th C
each side of this deer antler container has been carved out of one piece of antler.