This betel box is typical of Bagan laquerwork of the 20th century. It has colour-engraved or yun work in which the design is incised through red, green, yellow and black layers of coloured lacquer. The design includes court scenes known as nandwin (literally 'king at court'). In this case it is thought that the scene may depict the story of the wise king Mohosatta.Betel boxes are one of the most popular forms within the vast repertoire of Burmese lacquer. The tradition of betel-chewing required approriately designed boxes, in which the necessary ingredients could be stored and presented at a range of social and ritual occasions. As in many Southeast Asian cultures, betel became a signifier of social status and likewise the betel box. In Burma, royal gifts of betel were made to favoured guests, and the ritual procession of a young monk to his novitiation ceremony was usually proceeded by a beautiful young girl who carried a betel box.
