Chinese Mortar or Grinding Vessel

Half bowl, half boulder, with a spout that wasn’t an afterthought.

Carved in stone in Hunan Province, China, in the 19th century, this mortar or grinding vessel is an unusual form. Stone mortars were commonly used for grinding grain and foods. A shallow, oval basin is cut into the top, and a rounded ledge extends from one side like a lip. The stone is pale grey with white streaks and a rough, hand-worked surface.

About 16 inches tall and 27 wide. A sculptural block that sits low and says plenty.