Antique Bhutanese Silver-Gilt Betel Nut Box (Doma Box)

A finely crafted Antique Bhutanese silver-gilt betel nut box (Doma box) featuring elaborate repoussé decoration and traditional Himalayan motifs. The rectangular box is richly ornamented with scrolling foliage and a pair of confronting dragons surrounding a central flaming jewel, a powerful Buddhist symbol representing wisdom, enlightenment, and spiritual wealth.

Executed in high-relief silverwork with traces of gilt decoration, the box displays the distinctive craftsmanship associated with Bhutanese metalwork from the late 19th to early 20th century. The deeply chased borders and intricate dragon motifs create a dynamic and highly decorative surface characteristic of ceremonial and personal objects used throughout the Himalayan region.

Traditionally, such boxes were used to store betel nut, lime, spices, tobacco, or personal valuables and were often carried by members of the Bhutanese aristocracy and merchant classes.

Details

• Origin: Bhutan
• Date: Circa 1880-1920
• Material: Silver-Gilt
• Weight: 247 grams
• Dimensions:
  • Length: 5 inches
  • Width: 3 inches
  • Height: 1¼ inches
• Form: Doma (Betel Nut) Box
• Decoration: Repoussé dragons, scrolling foliage, and Buddhist auspicious motifs
• Construction: Hinged silver box with gilt highlights