Lime Container

ClassificationsFurnishings-Serviceware-vessels-lime containers

Date20th Century

Made AtLaos, Asia

MediumBronze

DimensionsContainer with lid: 4 × 1 3/8 × 1 1/4 in. (10.2 × 3.5 × 3.2 cm)
Lid: 2 × 1 1/8 × 1 1/8 in. (5.1 × 2.9 × 2.9 cm)
Container: 2 1/2 × 1 3/8 × 1 1/4 in. (6.4 × 3.5 × 3.2 cm)

Credit LineGift of Anne and Long Shung Shih

Object number2019.23.57a,b

DescriptionThis is a bronze lime container from Laos. Lime comes from grinding up burnt coral or limestone into a fine power. When mixed with ground betel nut, the compound releases alkaloids which have a narcotic effect when they enter the human bloodstream. These containers are usually paired with a stick which is used to serve the lime powder. The usage of the narcotic can have a religious function or be done recreationally. Due to the negative impacts of long-term usage, Laotian consumption has fallen drastically in recent years.

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