Chinese Mortar or Grinding Vessel

Smooth, sandy and sturdy, this mortar looks sculpted by the weather.

Stonecutters of Shandong Province, China, carved this mortar or grinding vessel in stone, dated in the record to the 18th century or earlier. Stone mortars were commonly used to grind grain and other foodstuffs. The shape is a thick-walled, rounded cup with a flared mouth. The surface is a pale, even buff, finely pitted and soft to look at, with slight darker patches along one side.

About 15 inches tall and 17 across. Quiet and warm, and easy to place.