Indian Kharal or Chutney Grinder

Shaped like a lumpy canoe, this shallow trough has no interest in straight lines.

This stone kharal or chutney grinder is from India, and dates to the 20th century. It is jaisalmer stone. A kharal is a stone mortar used in Indian kitchens, in which spices, herbs and chutneys are ground by hand with a heavy stone pestle. Long, pointed-oval trough in sandy tan with a rough, chiseled outer surface. The shallow hollow runs most of its length and the rim is thick and uneven. Chisel marks show along the sides and the color is warm and faded. It is 9.5 inches wide, 5.5 deep and 3 high.

A boat for very small, very patient sailors.