Koftgari Sarota - Betel Nut Cutter from Rajasthan - 19th Century Wucai Porcelain and a sturdy chain to

and a sturdy chain to prevent the lid from straining its hinges

It would originally have been painted and the finish has since worn away leaving a beautiful rustic patina

chewed for its stimulant and mildly psychoactive effects

offering both utility and historic character

Condition: Age-related wear and surface losses

Koftgari Sarota - Betel Nut Cutter from Rajasthan - 19th Century Wucai Porcelain and a sturdy chain toThis antique Indian sarota, or betelnut cutter is a cross between scissors and nutcrackers. It is an excellent example of quality workmanship on a utility item. The frame is inlaid with silver using a technique called bidriwork (called koftgari work in India) and it is hinged with a brass pin. Sarotas are used to shave slivers from the areca (betel) nut which was then mixed with spices and wrapped in betel leaves to make paan. Paan was a stimulant