Sarota - Betel Nut Cutter from Rajasthan - 19th Century Style - Fengweizun 'Phoenix Tail' Vases 2 further drawers behind the

2 further drawers behind the locking door - bottom right - Meiji Period Late 19thC

It comes with 4 stone feet

variations and imperfections consistent with age and handcraft

Condition: Excellent condition

The yuntou 'cloud head' motif at the top of the legs has been used since the 13th century and symbolises good fortune

Sarota - Betel Nut Cutter from Rajasthan - 19th Century Style - Fengweizun 'Phoenix Tail' Vases 2 further drawers behind theThis antique Indian sarota, or betelnut cutter is a cross between scissors and nutcrackers. They're used to shave slivers from the areca (betel) nut which was then mixed with spices and wrapped in betel leaves to make paan. Paan was a stimulant chewed for its psychoactive effects. This simple iron sarota dates to the 19th century and pivots on a crude manifestation of a peacock head. Many sarota were produced in Kutch, Gujarat which was a hub for