Octagonal Brass Jali Paandan Box - 1920

This attractive octagonal brass paandan box dates to the early 20th century and was traditionally used throughout India for storing paan leaves and the ingredients required to prepare betel quid. Crafted by hand from sheet brass, the box features finely pierced jali work panels that create an elegant geometric lattice pattern, allowing ventilation while showcasing the skill of the artisan.

The octagonal form gives the piece a distinctive architectural quality, enhanced by its domed feet, shaped carrying handle and decorative front clasp. Rows of pierced and punched ornament run around the body and lid, while the warm brass surface has developed a rich patina through decades of use, adding depth and character to the piece.

Paan has long been an important part of social and cultural life across the Indian subcontinent. Prepared from betel leaves filled with aromatic spices and other ingredients, it was often offered as a gesture of hospitality and stored in specialised containers such as this. Practical yet decorative, paandan boxes were commonly found in homes where they served both functional and ceremonial purposes.

Today, this beautifully proportioned antique box makes an excellent decorative object, jewellery box, trinket container or desk accessory, bringing a touch of traditional Indian craftsmanship into a contemporary interior.

A comparable example can be seen in Folk Art & Culture of Gujarat: A Guide to the Collection of the Shreyas Folk Museum of Gujarat by Jyotindra Jain, illustrating the enduring popularity of pierced brass paandan boxes throughout western India.

• Origin: India
• Date: Circa 1920
• Materials: Brass
• Features: Octagonal form, pierced jali work decoration, hinged lid, carrying handle, decorative clasp, raised feet
• Condition: Good antique condition with age-related wear, patina and surface marks consistent with age and use
• Dimensions: W18 x D15.5 x H12 cm