OP: Two Volumes on Betel Chewing

Betel chewing is a widespread custom throughout Southeast Asia; it involves chewing betel leaves, areca nuts, and lime in combination, creating a mild stimulant effect. The practice dates back thousands of years and does not preclude any class, age, sex, or occasion. 

We offer here two slim but serious volumes on the subject, Betel Chewing Traditions in South-East Asia (1993) and Betel-Chewing Equipment of East New Guinea (1988), as a sound introduction to the deeply-rooted history, culture, symbolism, and art associated with the practice, which is, even now, not commonly seen in the US.

The first book, illustrated with black and white drawings and color photography, deals more with the cultural traditions and history surrounding the practice. The communal and social aspect of betel-chewing, besides the mild sense of euphoria aroused, is the primary draw and sharing quid a measure of hospitality. “‘One immensely bad feature associated with it [is], namely, the sending away [of friends] after its bestowal,’” laments a Sanskrit verse.

The second book, alternatively, highlights the artistry surrounding the paraphernalia used, particularly in Papua New Guinea and the surrounding islands where one might find elaborately carved lime spatulas and baskets woven of vegetable fibers for carrying all the equipment and ingredients. Heavily illustrated with black and white photos.

The first book, a hardcover issued without jacket, is in Near Fine condition; the second is a slightly shelfworn paperback.