Indian Kharal or Chutney Grinder

Grey, bumpy lump of rock with a bowl scooped out, and no apologies for it.

This stone kharal or chutney grinder is from India, and dates to the 20th century. It is jaisalmer stone. Stone vessels are carved by hand from a single block, with a hollow bowl for the food and a thick base that keeps the mortar steady while in use. Wide oval basin in grey and tan with a rough, flaky outer skin. The thick rim is uneven and the interior forms a smooth shallow dish. Small chips and bands of color streak across the sides. It is 9.5 inches wide, 8 deep and 3.5 high.

Mostly boulder, with a hollow to prove it.