Antique Brass Paan Box (Indian)

Even in its tarnished, unpolished state, this handcrafted, eight-sided, cast brass box shines. 
 
According to our research online, the ‘paan daan’ box originally came with compartments for storing components used in making ‘paan’ from betel nut. We saw several similar pieces made with thin (but strong) brass online with brass trays inside with metal ‘pockets’ to allow for storage of different spices and/or ingredients. Ours has a raised ledge just below the rim which suggests it may have once held such a tray. 
 
We believe this box was purchased in India in the 1920s or 1930s by our great grand aunts. There are no hallmarks on the piece. (We did find several online from the 1960s that all said MADE IN INDIA.) There is a strange notation inside the lid however which could be someone’s name. We are quite sure it is not Hindi.
 
There are some etchings on the relatively heavy handle, but they do not appear to be particularly illustrative. The hinge in the back works fine and is attached by very small pins or nails. The slightly domed lid sits upright when open. The front latch can be padlocked (padlock not included). 
 
As mentioned earlier, there is tarnish. There may also be some rust in the bottom. We would be happy to polish this if asked. 
 
H 3 ¾” (Box 3 ¼”) x L 7” x W 6 3/8”
1 lb 7 oz
 
Disclaimer: We have tried to make sure colors shown in photos are representative of the real colors of each item. We have tried to identify all imperfections in descriptions, but we may have missed some. If you are unhappy with your purchase, let us know