Antique Burmese Lacquerware Betel Box Kun-it 3pc Tray Marked Chinthe Lion 9\" For Sale

Overview
For your consideration is an exceptionally rare, highly complete antiqueBurmese lacquerware betel box, historically known as akun-it(ကွမ်းအစ်). Dating from the early 20th century (circa 1910s–1940s), this striking cylindrical hospitality box originates from the premier historic lacquerware center ofBagan, Myanmar (Burma).Exquisite Polychrome Craftsmanship & Iconography
This three-piece set is meticulously handcrafted over an authentic, lightweight core of hand-coiled split bamboo. The surface decoration is executed using the traditionalYun (incised) technique. The artisan delicately hand-etched dense, overlapping narrative patterns into the black lacquer base, filling the incisions with rich cinnabar red/orange and accented by difficult-to-executedeep forest greenlacquer.The exterior showcases a dense palace/court scene filled with royal court figures, celestial attendants, and stylized wooden architectural balustrades depicting traditional Burmese folklore orJataka tales(the past lives of the Buddha). Banding around the margins features elegant decorative cartouches containing flowing handwritten Burmese script.Rare Mythological Maker\'s Mark
The underside of the main base cylinder features a masterfully incised maker\'s emblem depicting aChinthe—the legendary guardian lion-dragon of Burmese Buddhist mythology. Framed by tight geometric concentric rings and highlighted with its original yellow orpiment preview pigment, this trademark stamp indicates production by an established, high-end master workshop of the period.Completeness & Integrity
While the vast majority of antiquekun-itboxes have lost their internal components over the past century, this set is100% complete. It retains:

1. The deep lower storage base container (historically used for storing fresh betel leaves).
2. The intermediate, shallow nested organizer tray (used for organizing sliced areca nuts, spices, and lime paste).
3. The matching tall, over-fitting cylindrical protective lid cover.

Condition Report & Patina Transparency
This box is in beautiful, honest antique condition with a stunning matte patina. It displays expected, genuine signs of age and historic handling, which include:

• Fine age-cracking (craquelure) naturally running through the organic lacquer surfaces.
• Typical, minor lacquer flaking along the high-friction seating rims where the components slide together.
• Visible, authentic concentric coil lines subtly telegraphing through the red-lacquered interior walls of the base and tray, confirming its hand-coiled bamboo core construction.
• There are no modern structural repairs, major breaks, or hidden restorations. Please review all high-resolution photos for a precise, close-up look at its cosmetic condition.

Approximate Dimensions:

• Width / Diameter:9 inches
• Height:8 inches