Deccan Open Cut Work Thali

This beautiful octagonal Deccan thali or platter made with tinned copper, features open cut work with floral and geometric designs. The central octagonal panel has a floral cartouche, with outer openwork octagonal borders and deep fluted sides. This platter would have probably been used to serve paan. Different boxes for various ingredients of paan would be placed along with lime boxes on the platter, to serve to guests.
The history of chewing paan dates back about 2500 years. The beautifully crafted accessories associated with chewing paan elevated it to a level of ceremony, much like the Japanese and the art of drinking tea.