Sure beats a brown paper bag. Ubiquitous throughout
India and Southeast Asia, tiffin carriers are tiered, stackable
lunchboxes that people have been using for ages. This beautiful vintage example
features colorful enamelwork that was popular with Malaysia’s Chinese Peranakan
population.
Originating
in India, tiffin carriers were popularized under
British rule in places like Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia, where they’re
known as mangkut tingkat, or “leveled
bowls.” Normally 2-3 tiers, th...
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Originating
in India, tiffin carriers were popularized under
British rule in places like Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia, where they’re
known as mangkut tingkat, or “leveled
bowls.” Normally 2-3 tiers, though your more elaborate examples can have up to
4, tiffin carriers are perfect for keeping the contents of your lunch separate
and warm. Rice or noodles often occupy the bottom compartment, while curries,
meats and vegetables are stored on top. Traditionally made out of steel, later
European models featured bright colors and beautiful enamelwork.
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