Betel box

Nielloware is an old Thai metalwork tradition mentioned since mid-15^th century but is believed to have been introduced into Thailand via India as early as the 12th century. Possession of such objects signified noble rank. The object to be decorated has a core of at least 95% silver content and chisels are used to etch the design filled with gold. The craftsmen producing these luxury items were mostly Malay, or of Malay descent.