Chinese Mortar or Grinding Vessel

Low, broad and etched all over, like a bowl made to be pounded in.

Made in China in the 20th century, this mortar or grinding vessel is carved from stone. Wide stone basins like this were commonly used in kitchens and workshops for grinding. The shape is a squat, rounded bowl with a wide mouth and swollen shoulders. Fine, dense tooling covers the sides, and a small mark sits near the middle of the front. The surface is dark grey-green with pale flecks, and the rim is slightly worn.

About 11 inches tall and 24 across. A low centerpiece that holds fruit, or very little, with equal dignity.