A traditional wooden spice box
This is a wooden container with multiple compartments carved into a floral or lotus shape, used to store different spices or condiments such as pepper, turmeric, cumin, mustard, and salt, with a lid that protects the contents and a central knob or figure for easy opening and closing, usually crafted from durable woods like jackfruit, rosewood, or teak.
ಮಸಾಲೆ ಪೆಟ್ಟಿ ಗೆ (Masale Pettige) / ಅಡಿಗೆ ಪೆಟ್ಟಿ ಗೆ (Adige Pettige)
ಮಸಾಲೆ ಪೆಟ್ಟಿ ಗೆ (Masale Pettige) / ಅಡಿಗೆ ಪೆಟ್ಟಿ ಗೆ (Adige Pettige)
Before modern plastic and steel spice boxes, such handcrafted wooden containers were common in South Indian kitchens, reflecting both the importance of spices in Indian cooking and the craftsmanship of rural artisans; their decorative designs showcased the artistic sense of utility objects, with each compartment allowing housewives to keep essential spices handy while cooking, and today, these boxes are preserved as antiques and heritage items, symbolizing traditional Indian culinary culture and valued as heritage pieces reflecting India’s rich culinary traditions.
