Antique Indian Tin Sedan Form Betel Nut Paan Box Car Shaped 1930s
Description
A charming and unusual vintage Indian betel nut (paan) box in the form of a 1930s American-style streamlined sedan automobile. Pressed and stamped from tin or white metal alloy with some copper content — evidenced by the green verdigris oxidation at the joints. The car body opens along a horizontal seam to reveal the interior compartment intended to hold betel nut, paan leaves, lime paste, and other ingredients of the traditional betel chewing ritual. Four functional pressed metal wheels with axle pins. Embossed decorative details on roof and body panels. Partially legible embossed text on rumble seat door panel saying “Betel Motor Car Patent No. 75035. Please see photos for condition details as the pictures are considered a part of the description.
