Our endearing little Cambodian Pelican Sculpture is a replica of a Khmer hand crafted silver pelican box. This charming sculpture will fit almost anywhere in a house. It will look stylish on a mantelpiece or a shelf, in a living room or in a kitchen. The carving detail on the pelican is very fine. The feathers shown in exquisite detail vary over the body of the bird. We have picked out details such as the wings, the legs, eye and the beak in antiqued silver leaf.
The story of the betal box is interesting. They were used for many centuries to store betel quid. Southeast Asians enjoyed chewing this paste Asians during social functions and court ceremonies as a mild narcotic. Although the exact preparation varies across countries and cultures, the quid is usually a mixture of slaked lime, a betel leaf and flavorings such as cardamom, cinnamon and tobacco. The original box shaped as a pelican would have separated into a lid and a base. This sculpture does not open.
This little Cambodian Pelican Sculpture also makes a wonderful gifts and unique presents for any occasion. Although sold individually the pelicans also look charming as a pair. They look gorgeous on our Clare console tables.
