Floral Octagonal Thali - 01

This octagonal brass thali or platter is from Mysore. Engraved with beautiful floral designs in the centre, around which are a series of octagonal foliate, geometric and plain bands.
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.