Chinese Mortar or Grinding Vessel

A pinkish stone pot that has seen a lot of pounding.

Chinese stonemasons of Hunan Province made this mortar or grinding vessel in stone in the 19th century. Stone mortars were commonly used for grinding grain, spices and other foods. This one is a stout, slightly flaring cylinder with a deep, round opening and a pitted surface. The stone has a pinkish-tan cast, with grainy texture, small chips at the rim and darker patches where hands once rested.

About 14 inches tall and 18 across. Rustic in a way a decorator would pay for.