An antique set of four Indonesian betel nut cutters. Three of the smaller cutters are made with mixed metals and iron; One with the head of a goose, one with the head of a serpent, and one shaped as a peacock. The largest of the set is hand-carved into a playful dog.
The practice of betel nut chewing is common in many parts of South Asia. Slices of the areca nut would be wrapped in betel leaves and chewed, giving a mild stimulant effect. Sometimes tobacco and slaked lime would be included in the betel nut mixture as this releases the alkaloid of the nut.
Dimensions: 5 to 6.5" length