Early Betel Nut Beauties

NCL Special Collection / Huang Shu-min / 1960 / 12.8×18cm / 《Visual Feast》

The consumption of betel nut in Taiwan has been going on for over 300 years; however, it was not until after the 1980s that “betel nut beauties” appeared. Betel nut girls are often dressed in revealing, eye-candy clothing as a way of attracting customers. This has become a unique cultural phenomenon of Taiwan.
Before the rise of betel nut beauties, those manning betel nut stands were often not young girls, and competition focused on flavor and service. However, as an ancient Chinese philosopher said: “The desire for food and sex are our nature.” This betel nut beauty from the 1960s, despite being dressed in a well-fitting long-sleeved shirt and pants, definitely adds to the business of her stand with her attractive face, plump physique, and coy expression.