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Item Report
Folk Art Brass Duck-Shaped Betel Nut Box
By:Unknown maker
Style:South Asian Folk Art, Decorative Brasswork
Origin:India or Burma (Myanmar)
Materials:Brass
Age:Circa 1940-1970
Condition:Very Good (patina, scattered small dents, functioning latch, moderate wear consistent with age, not officially appraised)
Value:$40-$90
Maker's Marks / Writing:None visible in provided image.
Date:2025-07-02 15:19:25.972393
Description:
This is a vintage betel nut (paan) container crafted in the form of a duck, made from cast and hammered brass. Such whimsical, animal-shaped containers are commonly found in South and Southeast Asia, especially India, where betel nut boxes were part of social and ceremonial life. The simplified, folk-style carving and utilitarian latch are typical of mid-20th century Indian or Burmese decorative arts, though these forms may be older. The box was designed to hold betel chew ingredients and is both decorative and functional.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
A whimsical and practical example of folk artistry from South or Southeast Asia, typical for the second half of the 20th century. Condition and patina are consistent with vintage use, and the utilitarian latch with basic cast features suggests post-colonial manufacture. Similar pieces are valued as decorative collectibles rather than fine antiques.
Individual Images:
No additional detail images provided. Primary image shows latch
feet
and basic surface wear. Latch form
proportion of feet
and surface oxidation support vintage origin rather than new manufacture. Minimal detailing is a sign of utilitarian folk art as opposed to ornate ceremonial work.
Provenance:
No provenance provided.
Condition:
Very Good (patina, scattered small dents, functioning latch, moderate wear consistent with age, not officially appraised)
Identification Score: 85%
The shape, style, material, and function strongly match mid-20th century South or Southeast Asian betel nut boxes. Identification is robust but country of origin cannot be pinned down exactly from photos.
Authenticity Score: 70%
Patina, construction, latch and mild wear suggest it is a genuine vintage piece rather than a contemporary reproduction. However, similar traditional forms are sometimes newly made, so full provenance would be needed for a score above 80%. Shows true age but not pre-20th-century.
Image Memory Note
Brass duck-shaped betel nut box, hinged, with latch and moderately worn patina. Likely Indian or Burmese; mid-20th century.
Keywords
brass duck box, betel nut box, India, Burma, folk art, vintage brass container, mid-century, decorative collectible
The report was edited after initial Artmink draft. Original AI draft preserved in Artmink audit history.
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