Khmer Angkor Period Bronze Lime Container

The Khmer Empire, Angkor period, 12th or 13th century, Cambodia.

This mesmerizing two-piece bronze vessel, dating to the 12th or 13th century during the Angkor period of the Khmer Empire in Cambodia, is an exquisite example of Khmer craftsmanship. Cast in a fluted shape with elegant proportions, the vessel features a narrow body and a lid that tapers gracefully to a stepped conical finial. It was originally used as a container for slaked lime, an essential component in the preparation of betel nut, which was mixed with spices and chewed for a mild intoxicating effect. The slaked lime, derived from shell, coral, or limestone, played a crucial role in neutralizing the betel nut's bitterness and enhancing its potency. Lime containers such as this were significant in Khmer daily life, reflecting both practical utility and artistic refinement.

This piece is deeply rooted in the cultural and historical context of the Khmer Empire, a powerful Hindu-Buddhist civilization that dominated Southeast Asia from the 9th to the 15th century. At its height, the empire extended across modern-day Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, boasting a territory larger than the contemporary Byzantine Empire. Its capital, Angkor, remains a testament to Khmer ingenuity and ambition, with monumental sites like Angkor Wat and the Bayon symbolizing the empire’s immense wealth and spiritual devotion. This lime container, with its intricate design and historic significance, stands as a tangible link to the sophisticated material culture and daily practices of one of history’s most remarkable civilizations.

Good condition. Age-related wear and signs of erosion. Vessel has either a mismatched top and bottom, or the two parts were separated and corrosion occurred differently on the two parts. Still contains remnants of its original contents. Earthen deposits. Lovely patina with some evidence of green oxidization. Size approx. 9,2cm x 2,5cm x 2,5cm.

Provenance: Private collection from Sweden

For a similar examples see:

Betel-box, The British Museum, Accession Number: 1954,0715.23 (https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/A_1954-0715-23)

Covered Bowl and Spoon, Tokyo National Museum, Accession Number: TE-809 (https://colbase.nich.go.jp/collection_items/tnm/TE-809?locale=en)

References and further reading:

The Khmer Empire, Rodrigo Quijada Plubins, World History Encyclopedia, 12 March 2013.