Containers like this for storing betel chewing ingredients are called pandans in India. Indian kings chewed betel in court to demonstrate capacity for unbiased judgement, while the offering of a royal pandan was considered a sign of great favour. Upper and middle class families offered betel to their guests after meals or before departure as a sign of hospitality.Hunting scenes are the major part of the elaborate decoration of this pandan. It opens up to reveal a gilded interior with five small compartments. The double fish insignia on the clasp suggests that it was owned by a member of the Lucknow aristocracy.
