Sumatran parcel gilt silver tobacco box, 18th/19th century

This antique parcel gilt silver tobacco box originates from Sumatra, Indonesia, and dates to the 18th or 19th century. The box features a distinctive elongated octagonal form with a slightly concave hinged lid, which is ornamented with decorative bosses.

The exterior sides exhibit intricate chased and repousse vegetal motifs, interspersed with geometric patterns. The interior is functional, divided into two separate compartments by a removable divider. A notable feature of this piece is the presence of extensive Jawi script inscriptions; a single line appears along the front edge of the lid, while the base contains twelve lines of text flanking a central foliate urn motif.

According to translated records, the inscriptions identify the owner as a district head, note the material values in rupiah and riah, and credit the manufacture to Tuan Raja Alisu Syartu. Measuring approximately 3.7 by 12 by 5 centimeters, this artifact serves as an exquisite example of traditional Indonesian metalwork, blending high-quality craftsmanship with significant social and historical documentation via its engraved epigraphy.