Featured Asian Silver lidded Pot - Chinese/Japanese ??

Hello.
I'd be grateful to learn more about the silver marks on this small (c. 6cm dia.) lidded pot. The seller reckons that it is Japanese, but I'm not too sure.

Much obliged for any help !!!!

 

It is a Shan betel box, used to store betel nuts. There are also smaller ones for lime, to fascilitate chewing. The betel nut and lime are folded in a betel leaf, a bit like chewing tobacco.
The Shan live in Southeast Asia, mainly Thailand and China.

 

I was about to say - betel nut box. I've seen a lot of these. They're beautiful.

 

I have one in my betel box collection.
Didn't even realise I collected them until I saw how many I have. They are such beautiful little things, I just buy them if the price is right.

 

Oh getting them for the right price is bloody hard. I saw a really nice Thai silver one for sale about a year ago...wanted to buy it...but the price was somewhere in the region of $1,000.

 

It was this lovely silver jar or pot or whatever, cylindrical, with a lid, made in Thailand, the guy told me. Medium-to-large in size.

"How much?"
"$700"

Oh god. Yeah I love this stuff, but not that much...thanks, but no thanks.

 

Thank you most sincerely for your prompt replies.

I've got to admit that the actual design of the box didn't strike me as likely being of Japanese origin.

Your superior knowledge is much appreciated !

 

The left column says pure silver in Chinese, however the green patina inside suggests otherwise.

 

Now that's quite interesting. Thank you !

 

Chinese marks aren't government controlled. It is usually best to check the silver content.

Gorgeous gold and Persian turquoise brooch in your avatar photo, Ce. Looks like Etruscan Revival?

 

I've never fully trusted Asian silvermarks for this reason.

Take it to a pawnbroker or jeweler and get them to do an acid test or an XRF test.