Lot #48: Two Pieces of Vintage Burmese Lacquerware

Two pieces of vintage Burmese lacquerware. Includes one large open low bowl. Measures 13"/ 33 cm across. A few small lacquer chips commensurate with age and use but nice patina and 2) a lidded 'lahpet ok' box in excellent condition. Measures 12"/ 30 cm across. A  lahpet-ok is  a round, shallow box with seven interior sections.  The central tray is for the pickled tea and the surrounding trays are for a variety of dried and roasted beans and nuts, slices of fried garlic, sesame seeds and small dried shrimps that are mixed with the tea and then eaten. The base comprises coiled bamboo which has then been hand lacquered. The sides and cover have been finely etched and coloured with swirling cloud and floral designs and cartouches with elephant or foo dragon designs. Lahpet is eaten after most main meals in Burma. It also had a ritual role, small packets of lahpet were sent to relatives, friends and other acquaintances to announce special events such as a childs name-giving ceremony, a wedding, or a sons entrance to the novice monkhood. It is made by steeping fresh tea leaves in brine in earthenware jars for several days. The leaves are then drained, chopped and mixed with sesame oil.
Condition: Very Good
Measurements: Various
Pickup category timeslot {B}