A MALAY SILVER LIDDED BETROTHAL BETEL CUP ( BER PINANG ) Malay Archipelago, South East Asia, late 19th century Of globular shape, resting on a hemispherical foot, with a short cylindrical neck, the globe divided in two parts, lid and base, to accommodate betel offerings as per the Malay betrothal tradition, the exterior finely engraved with interlocking floral scrolls framed within leafy vines and lush palmettes, a stylised lotus flower at the top of the lid, the interior plain, 16cm diam. and 23.4cm high. (16cm diam. and 23.4cm high)