Rattan strips woven (tempat sirih) basket Lampung South Sumatra 1930's

This is a small, rectangular betel nut box hand-woven from blackened bamboo or rattan strips, with intricate natural (un-dyed) bamboo patterns in light beige or cream color. The tight, fine weaving features classic Lampung geometric motifs-a combination of zigzags, elephants, crossed lines, and dotted patterns that are characteristic of Lampung craftsmanship, especially from the coastal Pepadun or Pubian communities in Southern Sumatra, Indonesia.

These boxes are traditionally used to store the complete set of ingredients for chewing betel like areca nut, betel leaves, gambir, lime paste and sometimes tobacco. They are an important part of Lampung adat (customary) culture and are often given as ceremonial gifts, especially during weddings.

The dark color comes from soaking the bamboo/rattan in mud or natural dyes for months, which also makes it more durable. The lighter patterns are created by inserting thin strips of lightly smoked bamboo during the weaving process.

16cm by 22 cm

Height: 6cm

Weight: 56.6g

Code: M/Um

Shipping: $25 (Domestic shipping within USA only. Enquire for international shipping.)

Price ($180)