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Timor Iron Rooster Shape Betel Nut Cutters 19th C. SET of 2
$ 500.00
- The Areca nut is not a true nut, but rather a fruit. When the husk of the fresh fruit is green, the nut inside is soft enough to be cut with a typical knife. In the ripe fruit, as it dries, the fruit inside hardens to a wood-like consistency. At that stage, the Areca nut can only be sliced using a special scissor-like cutter.
- These unique heirloom cutters/ scissors often take the shape of well loved village animals or classic caligraph designs and characters. In this fine old iron example, the shape is a Rooster.
- Usually for chewing, a few slices of the nut are wrapped in a Betel Leaf along with slaked lime. The combination has been cherished in Traditional Cultures for their effects as a mild stimulant.
- Measure Approx. 7.5" x 1 3/4", 6.5" x 2"
- Origin is Timor, Indonesia