Nonyas particularly used spittoons ('tong luda') for the daily hygienic disposal of spittle from chewing betel leaves with areca nut.Two types of spittoons were used. The first type, like this piece, was tall with a flared mouth and foot that resembled the archaic 'gu'-shaped vases used on altars in China. They were placed on the floor and within the washstands in bridal chambers. The second type was the jar-shaped table spittoons of various sizes, which were more portable and shared between Nonyas at social gatherings such as weddings.Spittoons were also a symbol of material wealth as they were often featured in portrait paintings as one of the items that reflect social status.
