Lime Container

ClassificationsFurnishings-Serviceware-vessels-lime containers

Date20th Century

Made AtLaos, Asia

MediumBronze

DimensionsContainer with lid: 8 3/4 × 2 7/8 × 3 1/8 in. (22.2 × 7.3 × 7.9 cm)
Lid: 3 7/8 × 2 3/4 × 2 3/4 in. (9.8 × 7 × 7 cm)
Container: 6 3/4 × 2 7/8 × 3 1/8 in. (17.1 × 7.3 × 7.9 cm)

Credit LineGift of Anne and Long Shung Shih

Object number2019.23.62a,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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