Indian Ayurvedic Medicine Grinder with Yoni Motif

A square block, a single basin, and a little ornament.

This stone Ayurvedic medicine grinder with a yoni motif was made in India in the 20th century. Such grinders are commonly used for preparing herbs and spices, and the yoni is associated in Hindu tradition with generative power. A smooth oval bowl is cut into the top, framed with a narrow carved border of leaf patterns at the corners. The block’s sides are roughly textured and the stone ranges from orange to dark brown.

About 7 inches tall and 11 wide. Plain and powerful, like a good pestle.