Indian Ayurvedic Medicine Grinder with Yoni Motif

Deep in the stone, a bowl waits for something to grind.

This Ayurvedic medicine grinder with a yoni motif was made in stone in India in the 20th century. Stone grinding vessels are commonly used for preparing herbs and medicinal pastes, and the yoni form is widely associated with Hindu symbolism of creation. The block is square and rough on its sides, with a carved, rectangular top rim of small ornament. A round, shallow well sits at the center. The stone is reddish-brown with pale, chalky flecks.

About 8 inches tall and 12 wide. Heavy, tactile, and good as a paperweight for a house.