This traditional ethnographc artifact from Southeast Asia, most likely originating from the Dayak people of Borneo or the Batak people of Sumatra. These containers were historically used by tribal shamans to store medicinal herbs, ritual magic powders, or slaked lime powder used in betel nut chewing. 

The main cylindrical body is intricately carved from bone, likely water buffalo or bovine. The hand-carved stopper is a dark hardwood.

The intricacies in the carvings indicate this is not a tourist piece. The natural patina of the wood and bone point to this being a late 19th - early 20th century piece. View all photos to appreciate the quality and condition of this beautiful antique, as well as measurements.

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