Collected on a trip to the Golden Triangle area of Thailand in the 1990's

These Karen Hill Tribe opium scales are traditional weighing instruments historically used by the Karen people, an ethnic group living in Thailand and Myanmar. These scales were primarily employed in the opium trade, which was once a significant part of the region’s economy.

They are hand crafted from teak wood with a hand carved elaborate elephant design on it's lid.  Elephants in Thailand have always been a sign of strength and power.  The scales consist of a small copper balance beam with two suspended bronze pans for weighing. The weights used were often made from brass or stone and were calibrated to measure small, precise amounts of opium. The scales were lightweight and portable, making them ideal for traders who needed to transport them through mountainous terrain.

These scales were not just practical tools but also items of craftsmanship, often featuring intricate carvings and decorative elements reflecting the Karen’s artistic traditions. 

Although the opium trade in the Golden Triangle has declined significantly due to government crackdowns and alternative livelihood programs, Karen Hill Tribe opium scales remain historical artifacts, sought after by collectors and museums for their cultural significance and craftsmanship. Today, they serve as a reminder of the tribe’s past economy and way of life.

We bought these beautiful opium scales from an Karen tribeswoman at a market in Northern Thailand on one of our trips in the mid 1990's, we believe them to date from the 1950's.

The Wooden case measures 18 cm by 8 cm approx and the scales are 12 cm long with 4.5 cm diameter pans.