Antique Bhutanese Silver-Gilt Doma (Betel Nut) Box

A beautifully crafted antique Bhutanese silver-gilt Doma (betel nut) box featuring exceptional openwork and repoussé decoration. The box is adorned with intricate scrolling foliage and floral motifs, highlighted with gilt accents that create a striking contrast against the silver ground.

The front panel displays a finely pierced openwork design centered on a Buddhist treasure vase motif surrounded by elaborate foliate scrollwork, symbolizing abundance, prosperity, and spiritual wealth. The richly decorated borders feature continuous floral ornamentation, demonstrating the high level of craftsmanship associated with traditional Bhutanese silverwork.

Traditionally used to store betel nut, lime, spices, tobacco, or personal valuables, Doma boxes were both practical objects and important symbols of status throughout Bhutan and the Himalayan region.

Details

• Origin: Bhutan
• Date: Circa 1880-1920
• Material: Silver-Gilt
• Weight: 191 grams
• Dimensions:
  • Length: 4 inches
  • Width: 2¾ inches
  • Height: 1¼ inches
• Form: Doma (Betel Nut) Box
• Decoration: Openwork floral scrolls, Buddhist treasure vase motif, and gilt highlights
• Technique: Pierced work, repoussé, chasing, engraving, and gilding