INDO808: Balinese Kacip Betel Cutter

A fine old Balinese "Kacip" betel chopper. The finely forged iron is in the form of a mystical beast that blends an elephant head, lions mane, wings and the tail of a horse. There is a fine inlay of silver wire, and the handles have silver sleeves. Commonly known as "betel cutters" these finally made tools were used for cutting the Areca palm nut, that is wrapped in a Betel leave with lime to be chewed. There is much ceremony that goes into the chewing of Betel, and the high quality of this piece would have been made for an important person. Mounted on a custom metal base.    

7.75 inches long by 3.25 inches wide. 19th century or earlier Bali, Indonesia.