INDO809: Balinese Kacip Betel Cutter

A fine 19th century Balinese "Kacip" betel chopper. The finely forged iron is in the form of a horse. There is intricate chisel work designs on the surface, and the handles have silver sleeves with copper caps. 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.    

8 inches long. 19th century or earlier Bali, Indonesia.