Dimensions: Height 10,6 cm Wide 7,8 cm Depth 5,3 cm

Weight: 363 grams

Cast in bronze, this finely worked container is of globular form rising from a lotus base, with a tapering conical lid surmounted by a suspension loop and chain attachments. The sides are decorated in relief with divine figures, including a four-armed goddess holding lotus stems, framed by scrolling foliage and auspicious motifs. The reverse depicts a guardian figure, likely Garuḍa, with outstretched wings and a fierce visage.

The vessel is richly ornamented with engraved and chased designs, combining vegetal scrolls and textile-like patterns. The lid and shoulders are adorned with lotus petal bands, a common motif in Nepalese metalwork. The container opens to reveal a hollow interior used for storing betel nut (areca), an essential element of South Asian and Himalayan social and ritual practice.

This object reflects the Nepalese mastery of small-scale ritual and luxury bronzes, blending functionality with devotional imagery

In Nepal, chewing areca nut wrapped in betel leaf (pān) has been a widespread practice for centuries, associated with hospitality, social interaction, and ritual exchange. Offering betel nut and betel leaf is a traditional gesture of welcome and respect.

Because of its importance, betel chewing led to a flourishing tradition of ornate betel nut containers (pān dan, supari daura), crafted in bronze, silver, or gilt copper, often decorated with protective and auspicious motifs.