Indian Ayurvedic Medicine Grinder

Black, cracked and heavily ringed, like a very old drum of timber.

This Ayurvedic medicine grinder in turned hardwood is from India, and dates to the 20th century. Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine from India that uses herbs, minerals and other substances, and preparations are often ground or mixed by hand. Appearing here is a hollow cylinder with a flared rim, a waisted middle and a band of rings near the base. The surface is blackened and glossy, with splits and cracks running with the grain. The top edge is rough and uneven. It is 13 inches wide, 13 deep and 13 high.

Rough hewn and still holding its shape.